The Gender and Music Paradox: The Influences of Music Educators on Potential Music Educators and Potential Professional Musicians

Date of Graduation

Fall 2007

Degree

Master of Music

Department

Music

Committee Chair

Norma McClellan

Abstract

The topic of gender and music and music education generates much interest, discussion and opinions among musicians. Of special interest is the transition from student musicians to adult professional performers. This study sought to determine the influences on female musicians as they decide to enter the music education and music performance fields, as well as to determine if a gender bias exists in current Missouri music classrooms and performing organizations. Ten percent of Missouri music educators and performers were randomly selected to participate in a survey addressing these questions. Analysis of the collected data resulting from the survey suggests that music teachers are the single most important influence as music students decide to enter the music field. Reponses also indicated that gender equality in music is currently a divided issue as the perception of equality is very mixed in music classrooms and performing groups.

Keywords

gender, music, education, influences, equality

Subject Categories

Music

Copyright

© Erika P. O'Bryant

Citation-only

Dissertation/Thesis

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