Mini-Concerts: Creating Space for Student-Initiated Performance

Mini-concerts are regularly occurring, low-stakes curricular events in the classroom where students perform music of their choice for their peers. An idea generated by music educators in domestic and international K-12 schools who strive to meet the needs of diverse student populations, mini-concerts have helped generate student excitement and cultural awareness in general music, bands, orchestras, and choirs in large and small programs alike. By creating a curricular space for students to share school-appropriate music that interests them in an informal and fun environment, mini-concerts can also help build student confidence through the active support of peers. This article includes resources and weekly schedules and describes ways that mini-concerts offer a platform for developing performance skill, music literacy, audience etiquette, and innovative thinking.