2026-124

Motion Introduced by: Curriculum and Academic Programs Committee

Date of First Reading: April 27, 2026

Date of Second Reading: August 31, 2026

Title of Motion: Request from Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts – School of Music, Dance and Theatre – for the establishment of a graduate degree – Certificate in Piano Pedagogy

Action Requested: This curricular proposal has received all college, school, unit and university administrative approvals, and is being presented to the Senate for review and voting decision.   

Rationale: ASU is known for who we include, not who we exclude. Unfortunately, classical music has long been a very exclusive field, particularly in piano. In order to remain relevant in the rapidly changing world, piano pedagogy must shift to be more inclusive. Our proposed graduate microcertificate in Piano Pedagogy will prepare students to actively contribute to this shift by focusing on inclusion of repertoire from all genres, cultures and identities; teaching methods for expanding the reach of piano music through recreational music-making (i.e., making music for enjoyment); and skills for teaching students piano across the lifespan (birth through retirement). This proposed program encourages students to be more creative in their pedagogical outlook, rather than just focusing on teaching students who want to play solo piano for competitions and concerts. This shift in focus makes our program unique and contributes to greater access to music while also better preparing our graduates to teach piano in a range of contexts. The Microcertificate in Piano Pedagogy will complement our current graduate coursework in piano by utilizing extant courses, formalizing a curricular focus area, and providing students the opportunity to specialize in piano pedagogy. The microcertificate is for anyone who teaches piano in any context (e.g., schools, community settings, conservatories, and private lessons) who desires to expand their pedagogical abilities.