Date of Award

1983

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Abstract

This report provides an organized and accurate chronology of the history of the LSU School of Music from 1955 to 1979, encompassing the tenure of Dr. Everett L. Timm, as administrator of the School of Music. Areas examined included faculty, curricula, enrollment, degrees awarded, facilities, budget, expenditures, performing groups, performances, and special events. The historical method of research was employed using a two-fold procedure: (1) interviews with present and former students, faculty, and deans; and (2) examinations of University and School of Music records and publications, and reports from local, state, and national publications. An investigation of assembled data indicated that: (1) There was an effort by the School of Music administration to obtain excellent teachers. (2) There was an increase in number of faculty members, as specialists in various areas were employed. (3) Faculty members contributed to the musical life of the community, the state, and the nation. (4) The curriculum grew with the addition of two Bachelor of Music, the Doctor of Philosophy, and the Doctor of Musical Arts degrees. (5) Graduate work was a distinguishing mark of the School of Music. (6) Course offerings were continually refined in all areas of music. (7) Enrollment was limited because of lack of adequate space and facilities. (8) Facilities were some of the best and most innovative in the nation in 1955; however, as the period progressed, growth and development of facilities were severely curtailed. (9) By 1979, a modernization and extension program of the Music and Dramatic Arts Building was underway. (10) Monies alloted to the School of Music were not enough to off-set financial pressures exerted on the entire University by decreases in financial aid from the State. (11) The School of Music had an outstanding reputation for the excellence of its performing groups. (12) Clinics, festivals, and workshops sponsored by the School of Music brought the knowledge and skills of internationally prominent musicians to the School of Music. Recommendations for further research included: replication of the study in unexplored areas, resumption of the practice of collecting and binding School of Music programs, continuation of the history of the School of Music, and proper protection and storage of its records and files.

Pages

527

DOI

10.31390/gradschool_disstheses.3943

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