A case study of an instrumental music program and its influence on the culture of a school

Abstract

The purpose of this case study was to examine how participation in a school-based instrumental music program contributed to the culture of a suburban high school. The questions guiding the research were: (1) How and why are multiple music programs supported by staff, students, parents and the community at this school? (2) What are the benefits of maintaining a music curriculum at the school? A single-site case study was conducted at Bigrock High School, a suburban public school in an area outside a major Mid-Atlantic city. The case study utilized in-depth interviews of students, parents, teachers, school administrator and members of the community as data sources. A content analysis of these interviews provided insight into perceptions and beliefs that stakeholders have about the value of students performing in musical ensembles at this research site. Three strands of literature helped frame the content analysis, namely self-efficacy, social capital, and the implementation of music schools. Findings from this study can provide useful ideas on how schools with fewer resources can benefit from having a music program at their site. This includes investigating programs that support the arts in and outside of schools. Future research can focus on schools with smaller music programs and investigate ideas on becoming larger. Additionally, future research can be centered on the level of musical influence to children whose parents/guardians also played a musical instrument.%%%%Ed.D., Educational Leadership and Management – Drexel University, 2017