In this episode, Melissa speaks with Dr Francis Yapp, Senior Lecturer and Academic Director of the School of Music at the University of Canterbury in Christchurch, New Zealand. They explore the world of community music and its place in tertiary education. Francis shares his journey from classical training to community music leadership, discusses the innovative community music pathway at Canterbury, and addresses the ongoing debate about institutionalising grassroots musical practices.

Key Topics Discussed

• Defining community music - Exploring what community music means and how it differs from traditional music education approaches


• Francis's journey to community music - From classical cellist to community music leader, advocate, and educator


• The University of Canterbury's community music pathway - Origins, curriculum, and graduate outcomes of this innovative programme


• Teaching philosophy - How group singing and cello teaching experiences shape Francis's pedagogical approach


• The institutionalisation debate - Addressing concerns about bringing grassroots community music practices into academic settings


• Māori musical practices - Discussion of waiata, kapa haka, and other traditional forms as examples of community music

Māori terms used in this episode:

• Waiata - Māori songs that serve various cultural purposes and are central to Māori identity


• Kapa haka - Traditional Māori performing arts including singing, dancing, and chanting


• Marae - A communal and sacred meeting ground in Māori culture where formal greetings and discussions take place


• Taonga puoro - Traditional Māori musical instruments, considered cultural treasures


• Kura Kaupapa Māori - Māori-language immersion schools operating under Māori custom and using Māori as the medium of instruction


• Te Reo Māori - The Māori language

Connect with Guest

• University of Canterbury School of Music


• Connect with Francis on LinkedIn


• Listen to Salve Regina