Computers play humanly impossible metal drum tracks
Drummers in heavy metal bands are getting so fast that it is frequently impossible for humans to play the parts, especially the bass drum. Bands turn to computers.
Fine Arts
What US schoolkids want for Christmas
A professor of theology in Chicago wonders if schools and kids can get what they need this Christmas. Or, will they just get more expired toys?
Science, too, laughs at Ron Burgundy, anchorman
If you don't make it as a physician after finishing college, med school, and so on, you might want to apply for a job as a science consultant on the next Will Ferrell movie.
New study: No intelligence gains from music lessons
Another nail has been driven into the coffin on those studies that appeared to link music study in children with enhanced intelligence or cognitive ability in non-music areas.
Self-righteous band students assail new director
When we said we want parents and students involved in the conversation about their education, we did not imply they should make hiring decisions for our public schools.
Lincoln-Way North student wins IL tollway art contest
Crystal Thorns, a senior at Lincoln-Way North High School in Frankfort, won the grand prize in the 2014 Illinois Tollway map cover art contest.
At least 1 Md. county needs better arts education
When regular classroom teachers integrate the visual arts into their lessons, it's not really about the visual arts, but rather about the secondary subjects. Here's our plea, again, for art for art's sake.
Great American Marching Band includes 9 IL students
This Thanksgiving, nine high school marching band students from Illinois will participate in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade as part of the 245-member Great American Marching Band.
Arts programs for disadvantaged kids win national award
The 2013 National Arts and Humanities Youth Program Awards were announced Friday. Among the winners are OrchKids from Baltimore and Storycatchers Theater from Chicago.
School accountability, meet the new music advocacy
The National Association for Music Education announced a new campaign to improve the effectiveness of educators' drives to keep music education alive in K-12 schools.