Music Research
Topics in Musicology & Applied Pedagogy
Worth’s research explores intersections between traditional and classical music, contemporary teaching methods, and the evolving role of the musician-scholar.
🎻 Irish Traditional Music in Violin Pedagogy
How Irish bowing styles, ornamentation, and repertoire can be incorporated into standard violin training.
- Bridging ear-training with formal instruction
- Applying tunes to develop flexibility and musicianship
- Deconstructing regional fiddle styles (Donegal, Sligo, etc.)
🎻 Extended Chop Technique for Violin
Exploring rhythmic and percussive bowing beyond cello and fiddle traditions.
- Adapting "chop" to classical technique
- Groove-based pedagogy in solo and ensemble settings
- Applications in jazz, Celtic, and modern genres
🎓 Middle School Orchestra Pedagogy
Gamification in the Classroom Using Classcraft and game mechanics to engage young string players.
- Increasing motivation through avatars and experience points
- Classroom management through storytelling
- Aligning with state music standards
🎵 Beginner Methodology for Bluegrass Music – A Worth Lewallen Method
A progressive approach to introducing bluegrass in the private studio.
- Playing by ear from day one
- Building solo confidence through simple fiddle tunes
- Developing groove, backup, and chop rhythm skills
🎵 Beginner Methodology for Irish Music – A Worth Lewallen Method
Structured yet flexible tools for teaching Irish tunes authentically.
- Ornamentation drills (cuts, rolls, trebles)
- Tune-based pedagogy for phrasing and style
- Integrating history and cultural context
🧑🎓 Music Artist Advocacy in Higher Ed
Reframing institutional support for performing musicians.
- The gig economy and academic systems
- Funding, flexibility, and visibility for artists-in-residence
- Case studies on artist-scholar career tracks
🇮🇪 Charles Stanford: Irish Traitor or English Hero?
A critical look at Stanford’s dual legacy in Irish and English music history.
- Nationalism in late Romantic repertoire
- The politics of musical identity
- Stanford’s impact on Irish classical music
🌍 Musical Diversity in a Classically Dominated World
Who decides what’s “legit” music in education—and when does it start?
- Curricular biases in school music programs
- Inclusion of vernacular and non-Western traditions
- Student identity through musical diversity
💥 Breaking the Classical Mold: Why Musical Versatility Matters Today
Why being “just a classical violinist” may not be enough in 2025.
- Real-world skills for career musicians
- The rise of multi-genre programming
- Marketability, innovation, and musical relevance
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