Self-Perceived Influences on Musically Active Nonmusic Majors Related to Continued Engagement

Abstract

This study investigated influences encouraging active music engagement beyond the high school and college years among nonmusic majors who are actively engaged in music. A web survey yielded a 50% response rate ( N = 476) from nonmajor students enrolled in performing organizations at a large Midwestern public university, whose responses addressed music activities in and out of school environments, influences on starting and continuing participation during high school and college, and whether ensemble directors promoted continued engagement. Results indicated high amounts of intrinsic motivation in both settings and active diverse curricular and noncurricular participation in music during high school. However, respondents indicated limited music activity outside of the college ensemble; indeed, a majority said they would not have sought a way to continue had it not been for the availability of a university ensemble that welcomed nonmajors. High school directors provided more encouragement to continue than college directors.