Sacred Music In Public Schools, By: Katie Shepherd

SACRED MUSIC IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS

By: Katie Shepherd 

   

Why teach sacred music in public schools?

When I was in high school, I remember students complaining about all the “Jesus Music” we sang in choir. At the time, I didn’t think much of it. If the music was beautiful, I liked it, if not, I didn’t. However, I could see how students could get offended by singing a myriad of Christian or Catholic based music.

Today, I realize the importance of sacred music in a choral program, but I also understand that I may need to back up this opinion. It is important to choose your music the music based on its musical and educational value rather than its religious context. It is also imperative to make it clear to your students that you are not indorsing one religion over another.

Teaching sacred music as part of a choral curriculum is my choice as a democratic educator. “Democratic schools are marked by an emphasis on cooperation and collaboration rather than competition, and arrangements are created that encourage young people to improve the life of the community by helping others. (Beane, Apple 2007). That being said, students reserve the right to choose to follow or not follow the religion of their choice. 

  

Are we allowed to teach sacred music in public schools?

When choosing repertoire for your choir, it is important to know your school’s views on sacred music. Each school may have different rules; however, according to the First Amendment, “the public schools are not required to delete from the 

curriculum all materials that may offend any religious sensitivity”. 

Although teaching religious music may seem controversial at first, it is not different than teaching an art class about the artwork in the Sistine Chapel. The art teacher is not proposing that the religion is correct or incorrect, just that the art work is beautiful and should be appreciated. “Likewise, a comprehensive study of music includes an obligation to become familiar with choral music set to religious texts” (NAfME 2013).    

Isn’t sacred music just meant for Religious Schools? 

“It is the position of NAfME: The National Association for Music Education that the study and performance of religious music within an educational context is a vital and appropriate part of a comprehensive music education" (NAfME 2013). 

From a historical and musical standpoint, sacred music is worth much more than it’s religious value. Some of the best choral music in the world shares its roots in sacred music and it should not be ignored. ”The omission of sacred music from the school curriculum would result in an incomplete educational experience” (NAfME 2013).  

  

Creating a “Religiously Neutral” Program:

(NAfME 2013)

A religiously neutral program is one that does not show favor or disfavor to any religion. These questions will help to aid you in creating a “religiously neutral” program for your school.

“1. Is the music selected on the basis of its musical and educational value rather than its religious context?

2. Does the teaching of music with sacred text focus on musical and artistic considerations?

3. Are the traditions of different people shared and respected?

4. Is the role of sacred music one of neutrality, neither promoting nor       inhibiting religious views?

5. Are all local and school policies regarding religious holidays and the use of sacred music observed?

6. Is the use of sacred music and religious symbols or scenery avoided? Is performance in devotional settings avoided?

7. Is there sensitivity to the various religious beliefs represented by the students and parents?” (NAfME 2013)

It is important to create an atmosphere that is accepting and non-biased for the students and parents that will be attending your concerts. If you are able to accomplish those things, your program will be an informational and rewarding experience for everyone. 

Don’t be afraid to talk to your students!

Let them know you are not trying to enforce a religion.

Your students have a right to know why you are choosing religious music. If you get them to understand your reasoning, you are less likely to get called from parents, or worse, get called into the principal’s office.

Be aware of your student’s religious beliefs.

If you take the time to notice the religions that are being practiced in your classroom, you are more able to be sensitive to their beliefs. Pieces of music from other religions with musical and educational value can also be incorporated in order to promote acceptance and respect for other cultures. 

No Religion is okay too.

Not all students practice a religion. Today, atheism is much more common, and it is important to be sensitive to this as well. Just as with other denominations, you should not endorse, nor denounce atheism. That being said, you can let your students know that you respect their choice to follow or not follow a religion. It is important that your students understand that the religious texts in the music are just a part of the music and not a doctrine on which to live their lives.    

Resources:

"Sacred Music In Schools“NAfME Music Education. NAfME,Web. 28 Nov. 2013

Apple, Michael W., and James A. Beane. "Democratic Schools Lessons in Powerful Education." Heinemann. Portsmouth, NH. Web. 5 Dec. 2013