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.