Music Education Description

Our music education students participate in a variety of performing ensembles and chamber groups directed by superb New York artists. They study privately with New York’s finest performers. Required courses include elementary and secondary teaching methods, music education “foundations” (e.g., the philosophy and psychology of music teaching) and music technology. Elective courses include studies in the liberal arts, general education, jazz studies, music theater, dance education, theater education and so on.

In addition, we provide students with continuous “theory-and-practice” experiences through peer-teaching, supervised field observations and practice-teaching internships in a variety of school and community music situations. Music Education at NYU offers a unique set of circumstances: a diverse community of artists, scholars and students; a faculty of dedicated and supportive teachers; a cutting-edge curriculum; an university with unparalleled opportunities for artistic, intellectual, cultural and personal growth – all of this in the legendary community of Greenwich Village, New York.

Here is a quick glance at our core Music Education faculty. A full listing with detailed bios are here.

Cathy Benedict, Music Education Undergraduate Director

Noted music educator, Cathy Benedict, is the director of the undergraduate program in music education. She serves as academic adviser as well as teaching undergraduate courses, including the Student Teaching Seminars. She plays an important role in evaluating and revising the undergraduate program. Cathy's doctorate is from Teachers College, Columbia University, in which her dissertation provides a critical critique of the National Standards in Music.

David J. Elliott, Music Matters in Music Education at NYU

Professor Dr. David J. Elliott is a prominent professor in the music education program. His appointment represents NYU's commitment to his "praxial philosophy" of music education. Formerly of the University of Toronto, Professor Elliott is well-known for his widely acclaimed Music Matters, a book which has challenged many of the current paradigms in music education.

John Gilbert, Program Director

Dr. John Gilbert is currently teaching in The Department of Music and Performing Arts Professions, where he served as Chair from 1985-1992. He holds the B.M. and B.A. from Texas Tech University and his masters and doctoral degrees from Columbia University. He has composed multimedia works for dance, opera and musical theatre.

Ira Shankman, Music Education Field Placement Officer, Undergraduate Studies Advisor

Professor Ira Shankman, former Principal of Talent Unlimited, a performing arts high school in New York City, plays a major role in the music education program. His work as Field Placement Officer serves the entire area of Performing Arts Education: music, dance, and theatre. He coordinates the Choral Programs at NYU, as well as conducts the Jazz Choir. As placement officer, Ira figures prominently in data collection on student activity and performance; factors which will be important in accreditation reviews.

Nancy Shankman, Graduate Programs Advisor, Community and Cultural Outreach

Former Director of Music for the New York City Public Schools, Professor Nancy Shankman brings to the Music Education Program at NYU the benefit of her many years of experience as a music and choral conductor, music educator and outspoken advocate for quality arts education. She served as the liaison between the Department of Education and the cultural community of New York City, expanding the walls of the classroom by encouraging collaboration among teaching artists, performing ensembles and schools.

Department of Music and Performing Arts Professions - 35 W. 4th Street, Suite 777 - New York, NY 10012 - (212) 998-5424