Natasa Economidou

Natasa Economidou serves as Professor and Associate Head of the Department of Music and Dance within the School of Education at the University of Nicosia, Cyprus. With leadership roles in national curriculum development and international music education organizations, she represents a significant academic presence in Mediterranean music pedagogy.

Educational Background:

• PhD in Music Curriculum from University of Athens (2004)
• MA in Music Education from University of Reading (1998)
• BA in Music from University of Athens (1997)

Professor Economidou's research centers on transformative music education practices, particularly in early childhood contexts. Her work examines how differentiated instruction creates inclusive musical environments, how students perceive effective teaching qualities, and the complex negotiations between official curriculum mandates and classroom realities. She investigates how teachers navigate professional paradoxes while maintaining educational integrity.

Her recent publications reveal a consistent trajectory examining music education through multiple lenses - from toddlers' developmental needs to secondary students' perspectives and teachers' professional challenges. The publications demonstrate growing international recognition, with articles appearing in Frontiers in Education, Research Studies in Music Education, and Music Education Research.

Professional Leadership:

• Elected board member, International Society for Music Education
• Former board member, European Association for Music in Schools (2015-2019)
• Editorial board member, International Journal of Music Education (since 2006)
• Editorial board member, European Perspectives in Music Education book series
• Member, AEC Early Childhood Music Education Working Group

Professor Economidou directs her own early childhood music center serving children aged 10 months to 7 years, demonstrating practical application of her research. Her work with the Cypriot Ministry of Education in developing the national music curriculum represents significant policy influence. Through her leadership in the AEC's 'Strengthening Music in the Society' project, she contributes to European music education strategy while maintaining active classroom engagement through her private teaching center.