Hispanic Students Talk About Orchestra Class

• In Event: Roundtable Session 101
  In Roundtable Session: Music Education Roundtable 2

Abstract

This study explores reasons that non-White students participate in string and orchestra classes. String students from four schools participated in group or individual interviews, and were observed in their classrooms. Findings suggest that Hispanic students often hear comments about orchestra being for White students only, but persist because they love music or have family support. Contrasts between the school orchestra environments suggest more complex questions about the impact of teacher knowledge and school atmosphere on students’ persistence in strings. Issues of culturally biased teaching strategies are also raised.

Author

• Margaret Schmidt, Arizona State University