Music Selection Criteria for Public Performances

The Music Department of District 64 exercises caution and good judgement in selecting music for study and programming for public performances. The department takes a religiously neutral approach to the use of music with religious text, neither promoting nor inhibiting religious practices. The First Amendment does not forbid all mention of religion in public schools; it prohibits the advancement of inhibition of religion by the state.

1. Music is selected on the basis of musical and educational value rather than religious context.
2. The traditions of different people and cultures are shared and respected.
3. The excessive use of sacred music, religious symbols or scenery, and performance in devotional settings will be avoided.
4. Religious concepts as expressed in sacred music are neither promoted nor inhibited.
5. Music literature is selected to focus on musical, historical, cultural, and artistic considerations.
6. There is an understanding of the various religious beliefs and sensitivities represented by the school children and parents.

It is important that the school music curriculum include music of all styles, forms, periods, and cultures. Since music with a sacred text or of a religious origin (particularly choral music) comprises such a substantial portion of music literature and history, sacred music does have an important place in music education.

The NAfME states:

It is the position of the National Association for Music Education that the study and performance of religious music within an educational context is a vital and appropriate part of a comprehensive music education. The omission of sacred music from the school curriculum would result in an incomplete educational experience.

http://www.nafme.org/about/position-statements/sacred-music-in-schools-position-statement/sacred-music-in-schools/