Experiences of Preservice Music Teachers at Minority Serving Institutions

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of preservice minority music teachers at Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs). Six undergraduate music education majors at two MSIs classified as Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCUs) completed field observations as a part of their music education requirements. I conducted individual interviews with each participant to uncover how preservice music teachers who attend MSIs describe their experiences as they matriculate through a music education program. Data were analyzed and coded to generate three themes: (a) stressful demands of the music education major, (b) immersion in school settings develops confidence, and (c) critical faculty mentoring and peer support. The experiences of preservice music teachers at MSIs are shared along with implications and recommendations for future research.