Student Perceptions of Meaningfulness in Three Instrumental Ensembles

• In Event: Emic Voices in Music Education

Abstract

This phenomenological study examines students' perceptions of meaning in three instrumental ensembles. Over a six-month period I conducted observations and in-depth interviews with members of a school jazz band, guitar ensemble, and wind ensemble. Drawing upon notions of praxialism espoused by Regelski (1997, 2005), I examined what ensemble members perceived as the most meaningful aspects of their participation and investigated the role that contextual elements—people, places, and practices unique to each ensemble—played in shaping these perceptions. Findings suggest that students' perceptions of meaning within music ensembles are multifaceted, contextually situated and holistic. This study offers student perspectives sorely needed in ongoing conversations concerning the relevance of music education in students' lives.

Author

• Janet Cape, Rider University