Name
Score Study As A Spiritual Practice
Date & Time
Monday, July 27, 2026, 5:05 PM - 5:35 PM
Description
Music educators have often used music as a tool to foster connection, build community, and provide opportunities for collective expression. While recent research has focused on topics like mindfulness (Frank Diaz), social and emotional learning (Scott N. Edgar), and flow (Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi), the concept of spirituality has largely been overlooked in U.S. music education, likely due to its perceived association with religion (Yob, 2010). However, definitions of spirituality commonly emphasize connection, transcendence, and relationships, distinguishing it from religious practice. For instance, Palmer (2003) describes spirituality as "the eternal human yearning to be connected with something larger than our own egos." This broadens the scope of spiritual practices to include a range of activities that promote well-being, creativity, and reflection.In the same vein, researchers have explored other approaches to creating safe and supportive learning environments, including wellness (Jason Goopy), trauma-informed teaching (Sarah Bartolome), and culturally responsive teaching (Geneva Gay). Many of the practices discussed in all of these research lines, such as journaling, meditation, and reflection, also align with spiritual practices. Brené Brown (2017) further emphasizes that "any practice that reminds us of our unbreakable connection to others... can be a spiritual practice."Therefore, this workshop proposes score study, which undoubtedly acts as a catalyst for connection, can serve as an accessible, enjoyable, and practical spiritual practice for music educators. By engaging in a structured score study process, educators and students alike can deepen their connection to their craft, ensemble, director, audience, and even the divine, while also supporting key trends in music education research. The presenter will guide participants through common score study practices that not only prepare teachers for rehearsal, but also foster improved mental health, reduced stress, and support for emotional and physical well-being. Through this session, participants will learn how to turn score study into a spiritual practice enhancing both their personal and professional growth.
Location Name
513B
Full Address
Palais des Congres - Montréal Convention Centre
1001, Place Jean-Paul-Riopelle
Montreal QC H2Z 1H2
Canada
Session Type
Paper Presentation
Presenting Author(s)
Jordan Cox