For March, Sound Learning explores the life and work of American musical revolutionaries and innovative composers with American Mavericks, a groundbreaking program produced by American Public Media. American Mavericks features the iconoclastic, tradition-breaking composers who shaped the development of American music — from Charles Ives, Henry Brant, Harry Partch, Laurie Anderson, Steve Reich and more. The program's Web site contains extensive streaming video and audio clips, extended interviews, and opportunities to participate in the creativity of the maverick composers.

This month's feature includes lesson templates to increase your students' ability to critically think about music. Students will practice these skills as they evaluate video and music clips, listen to interviews, and try their hand at composing music with interactive instruments.