| The purpose of this research was to examine the status of music education in the American Association of Christian Schools. Selected characteristics of music programs and music teachers were examined in light of biblical principles of music education and within the framework of the opportunity-to-learn standards recommended by the Music Educators National Conference. Quantitative and open-ended survey data were collected through the use of telephone interviews and questionnaires and were analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. Seventy-two percent of surveyed schools offered some type of regularly scheduled music instruction, though adequate time and resources allotted for music instruction were lacking in many schools. Forty-five percent of music teachers surveyed did not hold a degree in music. Because music is a vital part of Christian worship and service, it is incumbent upon Christian school administrators, music teachers, music teacher educators, parents, and other Christian education leaders to work together for the improvement of music education in Christian schools. |
