Engagement Interview Podcast

Engagement Project

In this post you will get to hear an interview with an individual who hasn't taken part in any music education throughout high school. 

Podcast
Some of the key points in this interview were that

• music education isn't really inclusive of student's interests. 
• Students have interest in learning instruments/singing but if they don't get to make the music they like, then they are less likely to continue.  
• Music is an escape
• Music education is focused on success rather than participation

Reflection

I learned a lot from this project.  I specifically learned a lot about the "outsiders" view of music education in schools.  What shocked me the most was that while students may not be participating in music courses, they are aware of what goes on in music classes.  I get annoyed about how many my younger professors say, hip-hop music is what kids want to do.  I was never that kid.  I didn't think that other students would ever be interested in playing Drake or Kendric on their saxophone.  But after interviewing Amanda, I realized that students really do want to play the new music that they already listen to.  No matter how simple or hard it might be, they are more interested in playing that as to playing fundamental building pieces or classical pieces of music.  I really enjoyed knowing that "outsiders" while not participating in music education, still have a huge emotional connection to music.  It was enlightening to know how much music plays a role in people's life.  The last thing I found interesting was that participation in the younger levels is sometimes very scary.  When people agree to model or participate, it is important to acknowledge them on their participation rather than the product in lower levels of education.  This project not only stretched me in my knowledge of the "outside" but also stretched me in my technical abilities.  I first tried record the phone interview on speaker phone.  I then adapted and purchased an app that directly records calls.  It was very helpful because I really wanted to interview my cousin.  I also was challenged in editing.  The hardest thing about editing was lining up fronts and backs.