Career choice among string music education students in American Colleges and Universities

The objective of this study was to identify teacher strategies for attracting school orchestra students to string teaching. Full-time string music education professors at 17 universities surveyed their music education students who were principally string players. Students were asked to describe their background, reasons for choosing teaching, and recommendations of approaches for teachers to use to interest students in string teaching. Results of the 153 completed surveys revealed that the majority of string music education students are female undergraduates who previously participated in school orchestras. Students chose string education because they liked teaching, music, children, playing their instrument, and being a role model for children. To attract others to teaching, respondents suggested that teachers be teaching role models for their students by showing their love for music and teaching, relating positively to students, giving special teaching opportunities and support to students interested in teaching, discussing the rewards of string teaching, and challenging students musically.