Batons and Babies: A Qualitative Phenomenological Study of Mothers Who Are Band Directors

The purpose of this study was to examine what it is to be a mother and a band director from the perspectives of 15 women. The researcher hoped to create a document which will be helpful to band directors who are or who someday may become mothers. According to statements made in the Band Director Group on Facebook, there is a need for a sense of community among those who are mothers and band directors. The fundamental question that drove this study was "What is the experience of being both a mother and a band director?" Within that question, the joys and challenges of being both a mother and a band director were identified along with resources that mother/band directors reported as helpful. Also included is advice these women would share with others about managing this life. This research is a qualitative, phenomenological study of the experiences of women who are both mothers and band directors, using a social constructivist interpretive framework. Data collection included surveys, text messages and email messages. The most common topic of discussion was balance: balance of time, balance of financial resources, balance of household duties, balance of childcare, and balance of emotional self. The first category, "Logistical Concerns," addressed such things as arranging childcare and caring for the home. The second category, "Time Management," addressed the time mother/band directors spend with and without their children. The third category is "Resources and Support." This category has the subtopics of "Supportive Husband," "Friends and Family," and "Discrimination." The fourth category, "Emotional Effects," has additional subtopics: "Advice Shared," "Beneficial Effects of Music on Children," and "Beneficial Effects of the Band Family on Children." It was found that much like other working mothers, mothers who direct bands must become excellent managers of their resources. Coordinating childcare for evening and weekend obligations is an idea which surfaced many times throughout the data collection and literature review phases of this study. Supportive husbands can have a powerful influence in this area, providing care for their children, assisting their wives with logistical details of running rehearsals and setting up for concerts, and sporting a positive attitude regarding job demands. Family and in-laws can also have a significant, positive impact on the function of the mother/band director's family by their involvement and support. [Paper presented at the Annual Meeting of the Texas Music Educators Association (San Antonio, TX, Feb 2014).]