The Ideology of Competition in School Music

The Ideology of Competition in School Music explores competition as a structuring force in school music and provides critiques of that system from philosophical and theoretical perspectives. It considers ways in which music educators might reconsider the role of competition in their teaching practice and offers alternative frameworks for organizing school music.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 184 pages
Publication date: 26 May 2023
Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc

The Ideology of Competition in School Music delves into the intricate relationship between competition and school music, examining it as a powerful structuring force that shapes various aspects of music education. While some view competition as a natural and inevitable part of music education, others argue that it is a choice that should be carefully considered. This book aims to uncover the ideological nature of competition and explore its impact on student learning, teacher agency, and equity within music education.

Author Sean Robert Powell views competition as a microcosm of the broader neoliberal capitalist society, where individuals are interwoven in an antagonistic competitive field, governed by market logic and a system of accountability, reduction, and audit culture. Within this context, music teachers, students, and education administrators, both consciously and unconsciously, perpetuate, replicate, and sustain the competitive structure, often while expressing a cynical disavowal.

Competition encompasses a wide range of forms, including formal competitions between schools where ensembles receive numerical scores and are ranked, festivals where groups are rated based on predefined criteria, state, regional, and national honor ensembles, hierarchical arrangements within school music programs, and even the pursuit of social prestige, reputation, and ever-higher performance standards. While the book provides examples from the competitive landscape of school music in the United States, particularly focusing on Texas, which is often considered a hyper example of competitive culture, Powell's analysis extends beyond national boundaries.

The book offers valuable insights into the ways in which competition influences student learning, teacher agency, and equity within music education. It challenges the notion that competition is always beneficial and highlights the potential negative consequences it can have on students' mental health, self-esteem, and artistic development. By examining the ideological nature of competition, the book encourages music educators to reconsider the role of competition in their teaching practice and explore alternative frameworks for organizing school music.

One of the key arguments presented in the book is that competition can be harmful to student learning. It perpetuates a culture of comparison and comparison, which can lead to feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, and stress among students. Students may feel pressured to perform to unrealistic standards, which can hinder their growth and creativity. Moreover, the competitive structure can create a sense of division and isolation within music programs, as students are pitted against each other in an attempt to achieve success.

To address these concerns, the book offers alternative frameworks for organizing school music that prioritize collaboration, cooperation, and mutual support. It advocates for a more inclusive and equitable approach to music education that recognizes the diversity of students' abilities and interests. This approach involves creating a supportive environment where students can explore their musical potential without fear of judgment or competition.

Furthermore, the book emphasizes the importance of teacher agency in shaping the competitive landscape. Teachers play a crucial role in fostering a positive and supportive learning environment that promotes student growth and development. They can use competition as a tool to motivate students, but they should also be aware of the potential negative consequences and work to mitigate them.

In conclusion, The Ideology of Competition in School Music is a thought-provoking book that sheds light on the complex relationship between competition and school music. It provides valuable insights into the ideological nature of competition and its impact on student learning, teacher agency, and equity within music education. By challenging the notion that competition is always beneficial, the book encourages music educators to reconsider the role of competition in their teaching practice and explore alternative frameworks for organizing school music. Through a collaborative and inclusive approach, music education can become a more nurturing and supportive environment that promotes student growth and development.

Weight: 274g
Dimension: 156 x 236 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780197570845