This discussion reflects on the creative process behind developing the book “Make It Music” and its accompanying card decks, focusing on the philosophy of flexibility and adaptability in music education. The authors delve into their journey of brainstorming, teaching practices, and the challenges of translating Dalcroze Eurhythmics—an inherently fluid and responsive teaching methodology—into a structured resource.

They emphasize the importance of being “teaching artists” who prioritize responsiveness to students’ needs, creativity, and adaptability over rigid lesson plans. The card decks are highlighted as a tool that aligns with this philosophy, enabling teachers to draw on a variety of spontaneous or pre-planned activities to suit the dynamic nature of classroom environments. This approach encourages both teachers and students to engage in an open-ended, exploratory learning process, where creativity and community-building take precedence over pre-set agendas.

The authors also discuss the challenges of writing a book that advocates for not following strict scripts, ultimately settling on the card deck concept as a fitting analogy for the flexible, improvisational mindset of Dalcroze educators. By embracing unpredictability and encouraging reflection, the book and card decks aim to foster a deeper connection between teachers, students, and music-making.