In Search of a Better World? Reconsidering Sociology and Music Education as Utopian Fields.

Is it music education’s mission to change society? How should our society operate and what does this mean for how we approach music education? Kertz-Welzel looked at various interpretations of “utopia” and how sociologists form a vision of “utopia.” Kertz-Welzel also explores “utopian dimensions of sociology for music education and redefines music education as a utopian field.

Kertz-Welzel cites multiple researchers’ concepts of “utopia.” Views of “utopia” include: an unrealistic idea or a dream; a point of reference for political systems and societal change or a method; a good place and a place that does not exist; an expression of a desire for a better way of living; and a vision for a better society.

If we take the approaches of sociologists – viewing and analyzing our goals and practices to societies’ challenges – and apply them to music education, we begin to wonder about the bigger picture. What is the purpose of music education? Arguments about music education philosophies/approaches such as praxial, activist, democratic, etc. seem less important. The music teacher is probably following the agenda of a school curriculum and/or already taking a praxial, activist, or democratic approach. But why? Are we creating a “better” society through music education?

Kertz-Welzel encourages us to think critically about our mission. Similar to the early researchers of the sociology field; recognizing that as much as we strive to achieve a utopia, there are imperfections along the way. Every one of us presents a different brand of education. Our mannerisms, level of experience with learners, goals, and aspirations are all different. This could also mean our vision of a music education experience for students is varied. For some educators, a solid concert performance is the goal. And for some educators, a collaborative music learning experience is the goal. So, what are you trying to accomplish as a music educator?