Date

8-20-2026

Department

School of Music

Degree

Doctor of Music Education (DME)

Chair

John Wilkerson

Keywords

rural music education, marching band, Nebraska, socioeconomic status, median household income, geography

Disciplines

Education | Music

Abstract

Although the high school marching band has been a tradition in the United States for nearly a century, it is becoming increasingly rare in many rural areas. Despite economic barriers, some rural schools have overcome the challenges of their location and built successful instrumental music programs. Research on rural music education is vital because most new music educators in Nebraska will begin their careers teaching in rural schools. A quantitative study examined marching band performance in Nebraska, a highly rural state. The study reviewed NSBA State Marching Contest overall ratings from 2015 to 2024, along with a socioeconomic profile of the schools and communities the bands represent, utilizing a multiple linear regression model. Results indicated a statistically insignificant linear combination prediction at the conventional α = .05 level, F(3, 56) = 2.637, p = .058 (R2 = .124), but a statistically significant association between FRPL eligibility and weaker overall ratings. These findings can guide preservice and current teachers in shaping their teaching philosophies and pedagogical practices, helping them design successful programs grounded in research-based practices despite socioeconomic challenges. These implications have a meaningful impact on music education, and the results could also benefit other school music programs, such as band, choir, orchestra, and elementary music. Likewise, these findings could support rural school music programs across the United States, informing recommended future research that could shape local, state, and federal policy, leading to more equal access and funding for music education.

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