Music, Power Relations and Beyond

In recent decades, it has become evident that power relations in higher music education institutions must be critically examined and persistently addressed. Although institutions strive to empower students to succeed in their musical careers, power can also easily be misused, potentially ruining careers. As several high-profile cases of power abuse in the field of higher music education have demonstrated, there have been instances of actively pursuing individuals in positions of power within institutional structures. Uncovering such cases is not only about rejecting and abolishing the abuse of power and institutional hierarchies but also about identifying where the toxic and negative areas lie. Power relations in higher music education are often deeply rooted, widely accepted as “the norm,” and consequently, institutionally protected. This makes the ongoing critical engagement with issues of power and power abuse all the more important. 

This book explores different aspects of power and how it intersects with factors such as gender, socio-economic background, and ableism. It also brings together enriching reflections from students, teachers, and administrators that have the potential to inspire institutional change. By bringing the topic of power relations in music education into discussions at every level—as the book proposes—we are making an investment in the future of artistically, pedagogically, and administratively responsible, accountable, and just higher music education institutions. This book is intended to encourage these discussions and empower all stakeholders to critically reflect on and engage with power issues in the institutions they work and study in.