from the desk of the executive director
Unveil the World Through Global Literacy
Michael George, Executive Director
Music is a natural pathway to “un- veil the world” and “live globally.” The theme of this maga- zine provides rich opportunities to ex- plore multiple ways in which music can move seamlessly be-
tween cultures, languages, social systems, history, politics and communication. Within music education, Wisconsin per- formers, conductors and teachers have a successful tradition of cultural exchanges and tours throughout the world. These experiences become an extension of what is learned in our music classes and rehears- als. Context and structure are important in making these experiences even more meaningful. Educating our students and ourselves toward “living globally” can be organized naturally around accepted elements of global literacy.
Communication: As the world is opened to us through music and literacy in our first language, we are able to express ourselves in our own community. Technology has now opened possibilities for this expres- sion to travel the world in multiple ways. When musicians rehearse and perform together, it is a conversation in the world’s most complex, yet understandable, lan- guage.
Citizenship: We are all citizens first of our home community. Beyond that, we are learning the importance of a deep understanding of national and world affairs – their impact on issues such as economic development and stewardship of the environment. The health of every community is strengthened as students learn to see issues through the eyes of others. A music ensemble is the ultimate example of a community – whether a vocal quartet or a symphony orchestra.
Work: Travel, electronic communications and Internet access to global resources bring great opportunities in the very fluid global marketplace and workplace. Even in careers, music transcends language and cultural differences.
Culture: A nation’s humanity has always been best defined through artistic expres- sion and the performing arts. It is a re- markable experience for young musicians from Wisconsin to perform in another country and be applauded by an audience that cannot understand announcements in English but still appreciates and under- stands the music that’s heard.
What then does it mean to “live globally?” These are our hopes for our students and ourselves:
• Participate in the global society by staying current with international affairs and participating in the democratic process.
• Understand how cultural differ- ences impact the interpretation of events at the global level.
• Understand the impact of culture and beliefs on decisions about ac- cess to and use of technology.
• Be aware of how cultural beliefs and values affect the way others think and behave.
• Appreciate and accept similarities and differences in beliefs, appear- ances and lifestyles.
• Be sensitive to issues of bias, rac- ism, prejudice and stereotyping.
• Interact and work with individuals from other cultural groups.
• Use technology effectively to learn, connect and communicate on a global basis.
“A nation’s humanity has always been best defined through artistic expression and the performing arts.”
Within the virtual worlds of email, blogs, web-based social networks, virtual class- rooms and even multiplayer gaming environments, individuals are interact- ing with frequency that was unimagi- nable even a decade ago. As e-commerce, e-communication, and advances in trans- portation bring the people of the world closer together, it is increasingly important to understand and appreciate diversity and global cultures. At the same time, we must also be sensitive to the many cultures that exist within the larger American society and within our own state.
In 1994, John Naisbitt wrote about global
awareness in The Global Paradox (Avon
Books: New York). “We have all become our brother’s keepers. Communication technology has empowered individuals and communities through instant access to information of all kinds. Responsibility comes with that access. Are we up to the task?” (p.193).
That was over 15 years ago. He would be even more amazed today. And he would also see that music and the other arts are leading pathways to unveiling the world and living globally. Yes, we’re up to the task.
mgeorge@wsmamusic.org
10
April 2010
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