A More Promising Musical Future: Leading Transformational Change in Music Higher Education

Today's higher education music faculty and administrators are faced with extraordinary pressure to adapt, innovate, and change. But what change is most critical to pursue - and how can it be brought about effectively? This concise volume brings together four seasoned thought leaders with distinct voices, each providing a complementary glimpse into how music faculty and administrators can help lead changes that truly matter. Making the case for transformations to better align music training in higher education with our culturally diverse society and the actual marketplace facing graduates, the perspectives collected here provide essential change management leadership strategies for music departments in the 21st century. Covering topics such as diversity and inclusion, institutional transformation, and preparing students for contemporary music careers, each chapter includes an outline of specific steps that can be taken individually and collectively towards needed change. Illuminating issues and providing practical suggestions, this book will enable both music faculty and administrators to confidently navigate change together with their communities.

Michael Stepniak is Dean and Professor of Music at Shenandoah Conservatory of Shenandoah University.

Preface, Chapter One: Changing the Game for Music in Higher Education, Chapter Two: Transforming Community and Ourselves through Heart and Mind Work: A Pathway for Embracing Diversity, Inclusion, Equity, Belonging, and Justice, Chapter Three: Embracing The 21st Century Superpowers of Creativity, Collaboration, Entrepreneurship, Adaptability, and Playfulness, Chapter Four: Readying Our Classical Music Performers - An Employer's View