The Why and How of Popular Music Education: A Canadian Perspective

Music education is evolving. Across Canada, educators are rethinking who music programs serve, what musical experiences matter, and how classrooms can become places where all students feel a sense of belonging.

The Why and How of Popular Music Education: A Canadian Perspective brings together educators, researchers, and practitioners from across the country to explore how popular music can create more engaging, inclusive, and culturally responsive learning environments. Through stories, research, reflections, and practical examples, contributors share how they are empowering students as performers, creators, collaborators, and musical decision-makers.

Spanning elementary schools, secondary programs, post-secondary institutions, and community settings, the chapters explore topics such as student-centred learning, culturally sustaining pedagogy, creativity, technology, program development, repertoire selection, and authentic music-making. Drawing on diverse musical practices—including rock, Hip Hop, gospel, traditional music, R&B, bhangra, and more—the book highlights the many ways popular music can help students connect their musical lives inside and outside of school.

Rather than presenting a single model, this collection celebrates the diverse perspectives, communities, and teaching approaches that are shaping popular music education in Canada today. Whether you are looking to build a new program, reimagine an existing one, or better connect with the students in front of you, The Why and How of Popular Music Education offers inspiration, practical ideas, and a compelling vision for the future of music education.