A History of Education in Music

Abstract

Music has pervaded American history since the founding fathers sang hymns aboard the Mayflower. From that time until the present, music has been so embedded in U.S. society that it is experienced subconsciously in events and activities that are a part of daily life. Learning and instruction take place in the home, in churches, in the community, and from private entrepreneurs, as well as in schools. Thus, learning and teaching in music are heavily dependent on cooperation between parents and community, and on tradition and custom. This paper focuses on portraying the history of education in music in the United States. The term public pedagogy scholarship is used in education to document education beyond formal learning. This paper begins by recalling Oscar Sonneck's 1913 admonition, "Indeed, I defy anybody to survey the musical life of America with accuracy." It ends with a sample of external influences and out-of-school education in music. (Contains 5 notes.)