Should Aesthetics Be Taught In A Music Classroom?

By

Frank Purdy

TE 301 Summer

Questions To Be Answered

What is aesthetics? Where did the idea of aesthetics come

from? What are some reasons why aesthetics

should be taught? What are some reasons why aesthetics

should not be taught? Should aesthetics be taught in the

music classroom?

What Is Aesthetics? “A guiding principle in

matters of artistic beauty and taste; artistic sensibility” (Webster’s Dictionary)

Feelings and emotions brought about by the Arts

Where Did Aesthetics Come From? One of the oldest artistic

idea--Ancient Greek Culture

Ethos Character, mood, or

emotional effect of mode and style

Cults of Dionysus and Apollo

• Aulos• Kithara and Lyre

The idea of ethos endured

Why Aesthetics Should Be Taught

Aesthetic value cannot be separated from the Arts

Allows an emotional outlet not otherwise found

Promotes a grasp of, and sensitivity toward, cultures different from one's own

Increases social learning

Why Aesthetics Should Not Be Taught Aesthetic value is an

extremely subjective topic

Doesn’t make a strong defense for Arts Advocacy

Can aesthetics actually be taught?

Descriptions are often vague

Should Aesthetics Be Taught In A Music Classroom? There are two extreme groups to this argument

No Aesthetics whatsoever Aesthetics Only

I believe that with all things there should be a balance

Music and the Arts will suffer if we focus on nothing but the aesthetics, or if we don’t focus on them at all

Conclusion: Yes, it should be taught, but with moderation.