Multiculturalism

I had a huge shock when talking to teachers and students about the issue of multiculturalism. I was at first aware that there was not alot of multiculturalism present. But although the teachers and students would like to have more of it occuring in the classroom (learning, Teaching) sadly it is not occuring. I really found it interesting what Mr. Fisher had to say on the subject though.
"Multiculturalism is something that is so important to a musical ensemble. Music is called a universal language, and it is rightfully so. We can teach and learn about all different cultures simply by using music. We have something that no other teacher in another classroom has! The ability to play this music and experience the culture through the music, it leaves so much open to be learnt. There are so many interesting rhythms and styles that can transcend but still cannot because they are different. But everyone can learn about them. You can play through a song, and then be like…by the way this is where this song is from. You can then take the time to explain that culture. It will even make your music sound more beautiful. It really lends itself well to the classroom, and even better it is readily available. It should be part of the curriculum, it is that important. We cannot always just sit around and do a Suza march, I mean it is great stuff but we as a society really do a whole lot of western music. There is so much more out there, it is our job as teachers to expand our students horizons. There is so much more beautiful music and so many amazing cultures; it seems like a waste thinking of how they are not deeply integrated into most music classrooms. "