This landmark collection explores the origins and foundations of music education in Europe, The Americas, Africa and Asia-Pacific, and the Middle East, and considers the inclusion of music as part of the compulsory school curriculum in the context of the historical, social and political landscape. Within each chapter, the contributors explore the following key areas: - the aims, objectives and content of the music curriculum - teaching methods - the provision and training of teachers of music - the experiences of pupils This fully revised second edition includes new chapters on Brazil, Israel, Kosovo, Lithuania, and Turkey, along with questions to encourage reflection and discussion. A concluding chapter has been added to encourage readers to consider the evolution of music education globally. The Foreword for this new edition has been written by Sheila Woodward, President of the International Society for Music Education. Contributors have been carefully selected to represent countries that have incorporated music into compulsory schooling for a variety of reasons resulting in a diverse collection which will guide future actions and policy.

Its clear style and comprehensive coverage make this book an important resource for those researching child care and education practices in the European Union' - "NNEB News " This book would be a useful "quick reference" addition to the library of anyone interested in international issues in education' - "International Journal of Early Years Education " This study provides rigorous and incisive analysis of the data in relation to the conditions existing in each of the member states included in the work' - "Studies in Education " The book is accessible and informative, with a wealth of data which are clearly presented. It will be useful to further and higher education courses for all adults who work with young children' - "Educational Psychology " This book is written by leading representatives in the field of early childhood from eight European countries - Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Sweden, and the UK. The contributors provide an analysis of the history, philosophy and politics of the forms of provision for young children in their own countries, and the extent to which that provision is deemed to be educational in its general aims.