Heavy Metal and Music Education

This article discusses the benefits of applying heavy metal repertoire when teaching general aspects of Western music. Many young people frequently listen to heavy metal and subsequently have much of its repertoire in their auditory memory. Since heavy metal is tied to the fundamentals of Western tonal music tradition, it can be employed when the basics of rhythm, scales, and harmony are introduced to students. We suggest that using heavy metal repertoire provides a ground for constructive pedagogy and should be more often incorporated in music education. We support our view with examples drawn from the classic heavy metal era.