Some Educational Aspects of the Music Training Program of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 1935-1969
Abstract
This study consisted of two parts: (a) an historical description of the music classes, divided into three time periods for comparison and explanation, and (b) an evaluation of the effort determined from questionnaire sampling of teachers, students and stake music leaders. Historically, music courses for beginning and advanced organists and conductors were organized and maintained by the General Music Committee of the Church, designed to improve musical attitudes and performance in religious services. Many thousands completed the short, comprehensive classes, which offered an opportunity to study and prepare for church music service.
Findings indicated that successful courses were given in many geographical areas by numerous teachers of varying musical competencies. Evaluations by respondents resulted in listing of problems, and suggestions for their solution. Failure of the program to keep pace with the fast-growing, world-wide Church caused its demise in 1969, and training classes were relegated to stake leadership.