Teaching Music in the Urban Classroom is not a panacea. No manual on any subject, much less the teaching of music, can provide all of the answers to all of the trials of teaching in the urban classroom. This one is, however, a good first step. Why? Music educators play several roles in their professional lives. These include roles as students, leaders, and partners with other leaders. Sometimes their definitions blur, and the roles vary in sequence and timing. The pace of change in their roles is often accelerated for dedicated teachers in urban school classrooms. The contributors to this book have experienced the thrills and the challenges of urban classrooms. Their passionate commitment to helping others like them by sharing their knowledge and experiences compliments your own passionate commitment to success, both for yourself and for your students. So as you move into the urban classroom, let the music begin!