Date

5-20-2026

Department

School of Music

Degree

Doctor of Music Education (DME)

Chair

Thomas P. Goddard

Keywords

Servant leadership, music education, Title I schools, small schools, band directors, administrative burden, dual-role leadership, under-resourced schools, qualitative research, transcendental phenomenology, Texas music education, educational leadership

Disciplines

Educational Leadership | Music

Abstract

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 combination of interviewing experienced band directors and administrators, surveying directors, and reviewing related literature, this study will analyze qualitative data to gain insight into the phenomenon. The goal is to guide future educators in understanding their roles and balancing their responsibilities, while addressing the existing gaps in the literature. By addressing the disparity on this topic, future studies and the implementation of curriculum design may provide literature to develop potential tertiary preparation for music educators to gain knowledge of administrative and music director duties.

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