W. W. Norton & Company has selected Dr. Sara Haefeli to edit the 11th edition of A History of Western Music , along with the accompanying Norton Anthology of Western Music . Recognized worldwide as the cornerstone text and anthology for the study of music history, these books have shaped countless musicians and scholars over several generations.
Dr. Haefeli brings to this project a reputation for forward-thinking scholarship and innovative teaching. Her work has placed a particular emphasis on critical pedagogy, diversifying curricula, and rethinking the Western canon to include voices and narratives often overlooked in traditional music history.
The forthcoming 11th edition is set to highlight a broader spectrum of cultural, social, and historical perspectives. Central to the new edition will be a special focus on "active pedagogy," engaging students more deeply in the learning process by fostering greater interaction with primary sources and a problem-based pedagogical approach. These strategies are designed to enrich the educational experience by supporting critical thinking, active learning, and independent inquiry among music students.