Reading, Rhythm & 'Rithmatic

The Impact of Arts on Educational Curriculum

November 19, 2004 • Our series on the state of music education in American schools concludes today. Richard Deasy, Director of the Arts Education Partnership, summarizes what the research shows about the impact the arts have on reading and math, as well as on fundamental learning skills.

Youth Orchestras Rival the Pros

November 18, 2004 • The fourth installment of our series on the state of music education in America's schools focuses on youth orchestras. NPR's Korva Coleman speaks with renowned National Symphony Orchestra music director Leonard Slatkin about the University of Maryland's National Orchestra Institute.

Urban School Leans on Music Education to Thrive

November 17, 2004 • In the next installment of our music education series, NPR's Korva Coleman visits an urban at-risk school that was in danger of failing. The principal promoted music and arts programs and turned the school's academic performance around.

A Parent Weights In

November 16, 2004 • In the second installment of our series on the state of the nation's music and arts education, we hear from an American parent, Maria Calidonna. She reads her essay first published in Newsweek magazine in September 2004.

Education Secretary Rod Paige

November 15, 2004 • In the first installment of PT's series on the state of music education in America's schools, NPR's Korva Coleman speaks with outgoing Education Secretary Rod Paige and musicologist Dr. Camille Smith from the University Florida, Gainsville.