Welcome to the APME Liverpool 2025 conference. Here, you’ll be able to register for the conference and update your Sched profile. We encourage you to browse the various presentations and to create a custom schedule. If you have any questions, please visit our conference website or contact us at conference@popularmusiceducation.org We look forward to coming together as a community July 22–24, 2025!
Exploring the integration of student voice and co-construction in lower secondary music curricula, this research examines teacher and student perspectives to enhance engagement and inclusivity. Through qualitative action research, it highlights strategies for developing responsive curricula that foster collaboration, cultural relevance, and improved retention in music education.
The Rural Music Project will explore the development of music ecosystems away from major city centres, utilising art school pedagogies and the concept of scenius to generate community musicking and vibrant music hubs in lesser populated locales, enriching lives through encouraging cultural interaction, economic growth and an increased sense of place.
This session will detail the work being done at the SENSES Project, a music/podcast creation space at Syracuse University focused on increasing sense of belonging for first generation and other marginalized student groups. The space offers free access to equipment and education around music production, DJing, podcasting, and much more.
The Power of Student Voice: Define student voice and its significance in curriculum co-construction, drawing on research findings.
Insights from the Field: Share qualitative data from teacher interviews and student focus groups to illustrate the impact of integrating student perspectives.
Discussion Catalyst: Pose questions about the barriers and opportunities for amplifying student voice in music education to inspire further conversation.
Practical Strategies: Offer actionable recommendations for educators to create inclusive and collaborative music curricula.
This presentation explores "Illuminated Songs," a multimodal assignment in Taylor Swift-themed courses that engages general education majors in musical and lyrical analysis. By visually annotating songs, students explore themes, narrative structures, and musical elements. This accessible, interdisciplinary strategy fosters active listening, critical engagement, and highlights the cultural relevance of popular music in education.
