Permanent Seminar of the Research Group on Education, Music and Theater in the Community
25 February 2026, 17.30-19.00
Escola Superior de Educação, Politécnico do Porto | Room 106
Free entrance, both online and in presence
Room Teams https:// Seminário do GIEMTC com David Elliott | Reunião-Participar | Microsoft Teams
Music Education: Why, What and How?
David Elliott, New York University
Abstract
Why teach music in schools and communities? What values does music hold in people’s lives, and why do so many say, “I love music”? To answer these questions, we must first consider a more fundamental one: What is music?
This presentation examines these issues step by step, proposing a framework for understanding why music matters, what should be taught, and how music teaching and learning can be carried out effectively and ethically.
Please note: The perspective I will explain represents one possible set of answers, which I offer in the spirit of critical reflection and thoughtful debate.
David Elliott is Professor of Music and Music Education at New York University. Before joining NYU in 2002, he was Professor of Music and Music Education at the University of Toronto, Canada. He has authored 90 publications and given 300 presentations in 50 countries. He is also a professional jazz trombonist and composer/arranger in New York City.