Singing About Singing: Images Of Choirs In Aquitanian 'Versaria',
2026
University of Glasgow
Singing About Singing: Images Of Choirs In Aquitanian 'Versaria', Eva Moreda Rodriguez
Yale Journal of Music & Religion
Charles Atkinson and Gunilla Iversen, among others, have noted and discussed the increased presence of terms relating to music, singing and sound in Latin-language liturgical or paraliturgical music of the eleventh and twelfth centuries. The Aquitanian versus and Benedicamus trope repertoires provide a prime example, with words such as cantum, carmen, chorus and others recurring frequently. The recent development of scholarly strands (Emma Dillon, Sarah Kay) that considers how music and text combines (Dillon’s “sound of song”) to shape and put forward discourses that are precisely about the nature of sound, singing and music open up new opportunities to examine …
Elementary Music Teachers’ Perceptions Of The Impact Of Class Size On Tonal And Phonemic Awareness In Second-Grade General Music Classes,
2026
Liberty University
Elementary Music Teachers’ Perceptions Of The Impact Of Class Size On Tonal And Phonemic Awareness In Second-Grade General Music Classes, Ariel A. Supinger
Masters Theses
The purpose of this non-experimental, quantitative study was to investigate elementary music teachers’ perceptions of the impact of class size on tonal and phonemic awareness in second-grade general music classes. The researcher-designed questionnaire was sent to elementary music teachers who teach second-grade general music in elementary schools within urban, suburban, and rural school districts.
Social-Emotional Learning In A Middle School Band Program: A Qualitative Case Study,
2026
Liberty University
Social-Emotional Learning In A Middle School Band Program: A Qualitative Case Study, Edward J. Anthony Jr.
Doctoral Dissertations and Projects
Social-emotional learning (SEL) supports students’ development of interpersonal skills, emotional regulation, and responsible decision-making during adolescence. Although music education provides collaborative learning environments, limited research has examined how participation in middle school band programs contributes to students’ social-emotional development. The purpose of this qualitative case study is to explore how participation in a middle school band program contributes to the development of social-emotional learning (SEL) competencies among students. Through interviews, observations, and document analysis, this study seeks to understand how students and educators experience and perceive the social and emotional dimensions of ensemble participation within the middle school band setting. …
Factors Influencing High School Band Enrollment For Eighth Grade Students In Ohio Small Town School Districts,
2026
Liberty University
Factors Influencing High School Band Enrollment For Eighth Grade Students In Ohio Small Town School Districts, Jon Steven Kauffman
Doctoral Dissertations and Projects
Many factors influence the choices of eighth-grade students as they decide whether to enroll in high school band. While musical ability and achievement can play a role in this decision, research suggests that social influences, such as peer relationships, a sense of belonging, and the band program's cultural environment, often have a greater impact on students' decisions. The Ohio Department of Education classifies school districts into four categories: Urban, Rural, Suburban, and Small-town. Although similar to other designations, small-town districts require a distinct label because of the unique mix of factors in these locations. They lack the population density of …
A High School Choral Student's Perspective On Bullying,
2026
Liberty University
A High School Choral Student's Perspective On Bullying, Allen C. Thomas
Doctoral Dissertations and Projects
The purpose of this quantitative causal-comparative non-experimental research study was to examine the prevalence, type, and impact of bullying within secondary choral ensembles from the student perspective. Using a slightly modified version of the Swearer Bully Survey, data were collected from a convenience sample of 100 high school students. Initially, responses were to come from several high schools throughout the State of Maine. Due to challenges in survey administration, the researcher received permission to collect responses via social media and expanded recruitment to a national audience. The study employed a cross-sectional design and utilized Google Forms and Tally for data …
The Influence Of Theological Beliefs On Corporate Worship Practices In Southern Baptist Churches Of New Mexico,
2026
Liberty University
The Influence Of Theological Beliefs On Corporate Worship Practices In Southern Baptist Churches Of New Mexico, Stephen Jeffery Martone
Doctoral Dissertations and Projects
Despite Southern Baptist Churches of New Mexico cooperating in mission, education, purpose, and aligning with “The 2000 Baptist Faith and Message,” the way in which each local autonomous church incorporates theological truths in corporate worship and practice remains largely unstudied. This qualitative research project examines the diverse methods employed in theological education and their implications, considering variations in liturgical and worship styles, be they traditional, blended, or contemporary. In response, and guided by survey replies of pastors and worship leaders in the Southern Baptist Churches of New Mexico, the results reveal the challenges, process, application, and importance of choosing songs …
Servant Leadership In Sound: The Administrative Burden Of Music Educators In Under-Resourced Schools,
2026
Liberty University
Servant Leadership In Sound: The Administrative Burden Of Music Educators In Under-Resourced Schools, Ronfled Eriko D Espinoza
Doctoral Dissertations and Projects
Higher educational institutions design curricula to prepare future music educators for the diverse pedagogical challenges they face. Despite formal training, new music educators often feel unprepared for administrative responsibilities . In many Title I schools and other small school band programs, band directors are often expected to personify the dual role of music educator and administrator. Burnout, inefficiency, and reduced effectiveness are potential challenges when simultaneously managing both roles. This study will support current and future educators in their dual roles as educators and administrators by providing valuable insights into time management, leadership development, and policy advocacy strategies. Through the …
Comparing Aesthetic And Praxial Approaches To Music Education: Effects On Newark, New Jersey High School Student Achievement And Engagement,
2026
Liberty University
Comparing Aesthetic And Praxial Approaches To Music Education: Effects On Newark, New Jersey High School Student Achievement And Engagement, Jayson Martinez
Doctoral Dissertations and Projects
Music education plays a vital role in a well-rounded educational framework, supporting the intellectual, emotional, and social development of students. Within this field, two prominent pedagogical approaches are the aesthetic and praxial methodologies. The aesthetic approach emphasizes the intrinsic value and expressive qualities of music, while the praxial approach focuses on music as a form of human activity, integrating practical, social, and contextual dimensions. Educators often aim to enhance students’ musical growth by developing skills and understanding through musical engagement. However, the predominance of one method over another has led to discussions about whether students are receiving a fully comprehensive …
Structuring Support: Designing Sustainable Administrative Models For Music Education In Christian K-12 Schools,
2026
Liberty University
Structuring Support: Designing Sustainable Administrative Models For Music Education In Christian K-12 Schools, Haven Clippinger
Doctoral Dissertations and Projects
This study examined the impact of administrative structures in K–12 Christian schools on the sustainability of music education programs and the degree to which those programs align with the school’s mission. Many faith-based schools saw music as a formative part of education, yet they struggled to sustain consistent programs because of limited funding, small staffs, and uneven curricula. Through a qualitative, applied multiple–case study design, this research explored how theology, leadership, and institutional systems work together to build sustainable music programs. The researcher collected data through semi-structured interviews and document analysis from Christian schools representing classical, contemporary, and hybrid models. …
Curricular Design For Private Christian Music Instruction,
2026
Liberty University
Curricular Design For Private Christian Music Instruction, Jonathan Michelsen
Doctoral Dissertations and Projects
Private Christian music instruction is designed to develop musicians who grow in both musical skill and spiritual maturity. While this dual purpose is commonly assumed, there is limited research on how private music curricula intentionally integrate biblical theology with structured music pedagogy. Many private music programs focus on technical development, yet few studies explore how faith-based instruction shapes curriculum design, instructional goals, and teaching practices. This qualitative study investigated how instructors and program leaders described their instructional approaches to musical development, theological integration, and spiritual formation within selected private music education providers. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with instructors and program …
Music Therapy For The Treatment Of Body Image Dissatisfaction: Implications For Future Practice,
2026
Seattle Pacific University
Music Therapy For The Treatment Of Body Image Dissatisfaction: Implications For Future Practice, Elizabeth Hope Vance
Honors Projects
Body image dissatisfaction has become a growing concern in recent decades. Negative body image has been linked to anxiety, depression, elevated stress, eating disorders, and relational problems (Smith et al, 2024). Body image can negatively affect a wide variety of populations such as cancer survivors, people diagnosed with eating disorders, and adolescents. Fortunately, recent studies have investigated ways to improve body image perceptions among those affected. Common treatments for body image dissatisfaction include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and alternative therapies (Peng & Xie, 2021). Despite social efforts to reduce negative body …
Music Education For Diverse Learners: An Undergraduate Curriculum To Prepare Pre-Service Educators To Adapt Music Instruction,
2026
Liberty University
Music Education For Diverse Learners: An Undergraduate Curriculum To Prepare Pre-Service Educators To Adapt Music Instruction, Phoebe Winey
Masters Theses
Music educators are required to work with students of all levels and abilities. Christian music educators understand that all students are created by God fearfully and wonderfully (Psalm 139:14, English Standard Version) and that humanity is Christ’s workmanship (Ephesians 2:10). Christians in education must perceive all students as the workmanship of Christ and work to provide them with fidelity and excellence in education. Music education has proven to be a critical method for developing the minds of learners with exceptionalities; therefore, music educators must be adequately prepared to educate students with diverse exceptionalities through accommodations that improve cognitive abilities and …
The Other Summer Soundtrack: Mass Bands, Hbcu Influence, And The Future Of Culturally Relevant, Community-Driven Music Education,
2026
Liberty University
The Other Summer Soundtrack: Mass Bands, Hbcu Influence, And The Future Of Culturally Relevant, Community-Driven Music Education, Thomas L. Jones Jr.
Masters Theses
This study examines the roles of mass bands, community bands, and all-star bands and explores how they can offer culturally relevant, community-driven alternatives to traditional summer music education programs. This is especially important for students from diverse and lower socioeconomic backgrounds. Traditional marching musical arts programs require students to have access to sufficient funding and transportation, effectively locking out low-income and culturally distant groups. This research explores how alternative band models offer a viable option for supporting young students in music education, social skills development, and leadership. The multiple-case study focused on three diverse program types. Over the course of …
A Phenomenological Study Of Participation In Low-Threshold Choirs With The Lenses Of Flow Theory And Neuroscience,
2026
Liberty University
A Phenomenological Study Of Participation In Low-Threshold Choirs With The Lenses Of Flow Theory And Neuroscience, Jessie Mae Rajala Chapin
Masters Theses
The purpose of this phenomenological study is to explore participant perspectives on the multi-faceted benefits of participation in low-threshold choirs toward health and well-being as interpreted through the lenses of flow theory and neuroscience. The results of this study can inform the practice of choral directors to maximize the benefits of choral participation for the individuals they serve. The researcher interviewed twelve participants and analyzed data from thirty-two online survey respondents and two observations. Thematic analysis incorporated inductive coding of the data combined with deductive application of flow theory. Themes developed aligned with current research on the benefits of choral …
A Brief Historical Survey Of The Use Of Traditional Hymnody In Select Baptist Churches In Texas,
2026
Liberty University
A Brief Historical Survey Of The Use Of Traditional Hymnody In Select Baptist Churches In Texas, Christina N. King
Doctoral Dissertations and Projects
This research set out to understand the past, present, and future value of hymnody in select Baptist churches in Texas. The research addresses the critical concerns in Baptist worship: the shift from traditional to contemporary music and the potential loss of theologically sound songs that have historically grounded the faith of believers. The primary purpose of this study is to discover the depth and breadth of hymn usage in worship and understand how hymnody is perceived to shape believers theological understanding and spiritual formation. This study was undertaken as a multi-site case study of five select churches, with five people …
From Tradition To Transformation: Cultural And Musical Inclusivity In Sda Worship Practices,
2026
Liberty University
From Tradition To Transformation: Cultural And Musical Inclusivity In Sda Worship Practices, Alicia Raquel Jones-Lumbuz
Doctoral Dissertations and Projects
This dissertation examines worship inclusivity within multicultural Seventh-day Adventist congregations in the greater Houston, Texas, area, focusing on the experiences of migrants, first-generation Americans, and long-standing members. It highlights how their diverse cultural backgrounds, theological beliefs, and worship expectations shape congregational life. The study fills a gap in Adventist worship scholarship by exploring the lived experiences of worshippers in multicultural settings, particularly the perspectives of migrants whose attitudes toward worship are influenced by cultural heritage and traditional views of reverence. Data were collected through surveys, semi-structured interviews, focus groups, and ethnographic observations. Thematic analysis reveals eight interrelated themes, showing that …
Transformational Leadership And Its Impact On Cultural Identity, Musical Excellence, And Legacy In Select Historically Black College And University Marching Bands.,
2026
Liberty University
Transformational Leadership And Its Impact On Cultural Identity, Musical Excellence, And Legacy In Select Historically Black College And University Marching Bands., Cortrell Le'jon Davis
Doctoral Dissertations and Projects
This research examined the role of transformational leadership in shaping cultural influence, musical excellence, and community engagement in Historically Black college and university (HBCU) marching bands, with a focus on Southern University’s Human Jukebox and its leadership legacy. The researcher investigated leadership styles of band directors from Southern University Agricultural and Mechanical College, Baton Rouge, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, Grambling State University, and Tennessee State University. The researcher examined transformational leadership styles in marching band directing and their influence on character development, culture, and musical excellence. Ten music majors and alumni, along with fifteen band directors provided their perspectives …
Increasing Success Of Elementary Music Students With Special Needs Through Peer-Assisted Learning Strategies,
2026
Liberty University
Increasing Success Of Elementary Music Students With Special Needs Through Peer-Assisted Learning Strategies, Catherine N. Peacock
Doctoral Dissertations and Projects
Despite the federal laws for students with disabilities and their mandated inclusion, many elementary music teachers are under-prepared or lack resources to include students with severe disabilities in general music classes. Adapting procedures, expectations, and content delivery to include peer tutors who assist students with disabilities may be key to success for students with exceptionalities. This case study sought to explore the possibilities of reimagining the traditional elementary music classroom as an inclusive, collaborative space for cooperative learning and music-making by fostering peer relationships and peer tutoring. Utilizing a qualitative case study observational approach, this research explored how to best …
Assessing Non-Performance Based Standards Of The National Core Arts Standards In Georgia Public Middle And High Schools,
2026
Liberty University
Assessing Non-Performance Based Standards Of The National Core Arts Standards In Georgia Public Middle And High Schools, Richard Brian Horne
Doctoral Dissertations and Projects
Developing a well-rounded musician must be the goal of every music teacher. In today’s modern educational system, assessment is a tool used to help shape the curriculum of all subjects. Music assessment must be no different. The National Core Arts Standards (NCAS) utilize anchor standards for assessment in four categories: creating, performing, responding, and connecting. Standards that fall within performing are quickly evaluated in formal and informal assessments, but other standards, such as creation, responding, and connecting, often need exploration. One needs to craft assessments to determine student understanding of performance and non-performance standards and explore development in those areas. …
Homeschool Music: The Predictive Relationship Between Parents’ Homeschooling Approach And Religiosity For Music Learning Choices,
2026
Liberty University
Homeschool Music: The Predictive Relationship Between Parents’ Homeschooling Approach And Religiosity For Music Learning Choices, Ashley Virginia Finke
Doctoral Dissertations and Projects
The purpose of this quantitative predictive correlational study was to examine how accurately the combination of parents’ homeschooling approach and parents’ religiosity predict music learning choices for homeschooled students. A Florida Department of Education report showed an increase in homeschooling between the 2013-14 and 2023-24 school years, while an Institute of Education Sciences report documented that 49 percent of homeschooled students in the United States participated in music in 2016. Despite these reports, limited research exists of homeschool music education in the United States and, specifically, in Florida. This study resulted from the related literature and the dearth of current …
