Summary

This research aims to shed light on a relatively unexplored area in Greece: the operation and development of "Modern Music" departments in conservatories. Despite the growing interest in contemporary music, few studies have examined how these departments function, teach, and prepare their students for the future. This study seeks to bridge that gap by capturing the reality of the field through the perspectives and insights of professionals in the sector while also providing a basis for reflection on its future development.

The data collection was conducted through semi-structured interviews with teachers and department heads from across the country—individuals with deep knowledge of the subject who experience the teaching of modern music firsthand. The participants shared valuable insights regarding the profile of the departments, educators, and students, the dominant musical genres, as well as the challenges faced in teaching. Their responses also highlighted the motivations that drive students towards modern music, whether in pursuit of a professional career or as a means of creative expression.

Furthermore, the study examines the formation of repertoires and the artistic direction adopted by these departments, considering international trends and evolving dynamics. Special emphasis is placed on educational activities such as concerts, seminars, and collaborations with music industry stakeholders, which contribute to the artistic and professional development of students.

This study not only aims to document the current landscape but also to explore prospects for the future development of "Modern Music" departments in Greece. It highlights the need for adaptation to constantly shifting trends and the reinforcement of initiatives that foster creativity, thus underlining the role of contemporary music education in the broader cultural landscape.

• Curricula and critical approaches

Kostas Dimitriou: 

Kostas Dimitriou is a graduate of the Department of Primary Education at the University of Ioannina, holds a master’s degree from the Ionian University, and is a PhD candidate at the Department of Early Childhood Education at the University of Ioannina. He studied drums in Greece and the U.S., attending the Musicians Institute (Los Angeles) and the Drummers Collective (New York). During the academic year 2016-2017, he/she completed a one-semester internship through the ERASMUS program at Music Academy International in Nancy, France. He has collaborated with artists such as Joe Lynn Turner, Kip Winger, Ron Thal, Panos Mouzourakis, Fuzzy Nerds, Spyros Grammenos, and Dimitris Yfantis. Since 2013, he has been the artistic director of the Ioannina School of Music. He has an extensive discography and teaching experience in Greece and abroad.

Theocharis Raptis: 

Theocharis Raptis is a Professor at the Department of Early Childhood Education, University of Ioannina. He pursued his degree at the University of Ioannina and at Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität in Munich, Germany. He obtained his Magister degree in Music Education from the University of Munich and completed his doctoral thesis there as well. Ηe was a fellow of the Panagiotis & Effie Michelis Foundation. He currently serves as the Director of the Laboratory of Arts and Teaching Applications at the Department of Early Childhood Education (UoI). Additionally, he holds the position of Deputy Director of the Postgraduate Studies Programme and co-edits the scientific journal Musical Pedagogics. His primary research interests encompass music education in early childhood, the philosophy of music education, systematic music pedagogy, and the interplay between music education and emotions.