Date of Award
1986
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Abstract
The major purpose of this study was to investigate the public high school band programs of a large city in southeast Louisiana. A secondary purpose was to gather attitudes of senior band students toward their respective programs. Anonymity for the school district studied was guaranteed through a contractual agreement signed with the local school board. Data for the investigation were collected through the use of two original questionnaires devised to gather information from band directors and senior band members. Fourteen instrumental teachers participated in this study along with one hundred seventy-six students. Results from this study reveal that the majority of directors were experienced teachers but that the percentage of instructors attaining a master's degree was noticeably less than the statewide percentage. Average teaching load for directors met or exceeded the figures reported in a national survey. Considerable amounts of time were also spent before or after school rehearsing both marching and concert bands. A majority of senior respondents reported favorable attitudes toward extra practice sessions even though these rehearsals were at times lengthy. Instrumental music programs met standards established by M.E.N.C. with regard to class offerings and time spent in class. Although materials covered in daily rehearsals were within guidelines recommended by authorities consulted, a majority of senior respondents felt that little time was devoted to sightreading. Student participation was low in district honor groups and solo and ensemble festivals. Few seniors had participated in any type of brass, woodwind, or percussion ensemble. Less than half of the bands had performed in a musical festival. Half-time and parade performances exceeded those taken from a national survey, but concert performances were less. Student respondents indicated a desire to perform in more concerts and school activity assemblies. Both directors and students voiced needs for more parental support and additional funding from the school district. All organizations relied on parent and/or student fundraising activities to supplement their programs. Directors were generally satisfied with support from school administrators, but some expressed concern for the future of public school music in this city.
Recommended Citation
Fox, Earl Jacob Jr, "An Investigation of the Public High School Band Programs of a Large City in Southeast Louisiana, Including Attitudes of Senior Band Students." (1986). LSU Historical Dissertations and Theses. 4185.
https://repository.lsu.edu/gradschool_disstheses/4185
Pages
119
DOI
10.31390/gradschool_disstheses.4185