The purpose of the Bachelor of Music in Instrumental Education is to
prepare the student for a professional career in teaching instrumental
music in a group setting. Students are trained to teach individual
instruments, as well as instrumental ensembles, which results in public
school certification at the K-12 levels.
Graduates of the program have 100% pass rate on the Oklahoma Teacher
Certification Exams and 100% placement rate for those who were actively
seeking teaching positions. Those not seeking positions have been
accepted into graduate programs. Students have accepted positions
throughout the U.S., Europe, and South Korea. Several instrumental
alumni have been named school and district Teachers of the Year. Two of
those alumni have gone on to be named Oklahoma Teacher of the Year
(2006, 2013).
Instrumental Music Education students have the opportunity for music
teaching and conducting experiences outside of the Oklahoma City
University classroom through a variety of means. Students teach private
lessons in the schools and through the Oklahoma City University
Performing Arts Academy. Students are hired or volunteer as sectional
coaches for school ensembles, as well as for the Oklahoma Youth
Orchestras that rehearse in the Bass Center. Students serve in
leadership positions, such as marching band "techs" and drumline
coaches, as well as music arrangers. Students also teach at summer music
camps and festivals.
Music education method courses contain an observation component that
helps the student to become acquainted with master teachers, as well as
the discourse of school. Through COMEA students participate in state
and regional music education conventions and activities. As a
Conn-Selmer School, Bass School of Music students are afforded the
opportunity to attend the Conn-Selmer Institute.
This Bachelor of Music in Education program is designed to offer
students professional teacher preparation leading to certification for
public school teaching K-12 or preparation for graduate study in music
education or choral conducting.
These activities also provide a framework for continued discussion
about teaching philosophies, styles, and what it means to become an
effective music educator in the 21st century.
