Problem-based learning is an effective, student-centered approach in which students learn higher-order thinking skills and integrative strategies by solving real-world challenges. As one of the critical pillars in a liberal-arts educational system, music is uniquely situated to advance this new, innovative pedagogical approach. This pilot project seeks to develop models and materials for survey and topic-based music courses that integrates general education content while encouraging students to think creatively and develop flexible solutions to large-scale issues and problems – skills essential for success in the 21st century. Support materials emerging from this collaboration such as, outcomes, models, and case studies, will be made available through Open SUNY.