Religious Music
The Cobb County School District does not have a written
policy regarding the use of sacred music in the music curriculum.
It is important that the music curriculum include the study of music
of all styles, forms, periods, and cultures. However, it is necessary
that the teacher exercise good judgment and sensitivity in selecting
non-secular music for study and programming for public performances.
The Music Educators National Conference suggests the following
questions be considered:
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 using 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
religious music observed?
6. Is there sensitivity to the various religious beliefs represented
by the
students and parents?
MENC, Religious Music in the Schools, 1996
Music educators have an obligation to provide a quality and complete
music curriculum. This obligation must be met with good judgment and
common sense, keeping in mind the students, the community, and the
law.
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