Critical Issues in Music Education: Contemporary Theory and Practice is an edited volume designed primarily as an introductory graduate text or capstone undergraduate text for music education students, providing an in-depth examination of critical issues for early-career music educators. Linking theory to teaching practice, the text offers a variety of perspectives to give music teachers the comprehensive grounding they need to become leaders in the field. Rather thanfocusing on answers to "what to do" questions, Critical Issues in Music Education focuses on "why" questions through examining underpinnings for the field and encouraging teacher inquiry. Each of the eight contributing authors has unique expertise and experience as a practicing music teacher and music teachereducator, yet the authors share a common background-each is either a faculty member or a graduate of Teachers College, Columbia University. The authors include discussion starters, project ideas, and suggested readings at the end of each chapter. Offering contemporary perspectives on music education, Critical Issues in Music Education provides a foundation for understanding the complexities, challenges, and rewards of music teaching across diverse contexts.