“Girls Don’t Play Tuba”: A Phenomenological Analysis of Women in Music

UNCP Author/Contributor (non-UNCP co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
Megan Brinson (Creator)
Institution
The University of North Carolina at Pembroke (UNCP )
Web Site: http://www.uncp.edu/academics/library
Advisor
Dr. E. Brooke Kelly

Abstract: This thesis builds off of an independent study in feminist theory in which a research paper discussing the gendering of music and how feminist theory informs it was completed. The current research expands on this topic to discuss the historical gender bias found in music and the implications for women in the professional classical music field. A series of six interviews with female musicians was conducted in order to gauge their perceptions of gender inequalities and explore the realities of being a woman in the traditionally male-dominated field. The role of social movements, such as feminism and #MeToo, in addressing inequalities was also considered. Results of the study reflected gendered patterns in opportunities and gender-specific issues in the world of classical music. Finally, suggestions for change to improve the prospects for women in the field were offered.

Additional Information

Publication
Honors Project
Esther G. Maynor Honors College
Language: English
Date: 2018
Keywords
Music, Classical Music, Sociology, Female Musicians, Feminist Theory, Social Movements, #Me Too Movement, Feminism, Gendering of Music, Historical Gender Bias, Gender Inequalities

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