Triumph and Excellence

By Jason D. Thompson¹
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¹ California State University, Sacramento
Source: If Colors Could Be Heard , pp 173-178
Publication Date: November 2025
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1386/9781835951675_21
Language: English
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This orientation chapter for section III challenges traditional notions of excellence in music education by spotlighting the diverse experiences of People of Color (PoC). By navigating systemic barriers and reclaiming agency, the chapter argues that excellence extends far beyond technical proficiency in music. The chapter underscores the importance of recognizing cultural identity and fostering inclusive learning environments that honor a variety of musical expressions. Through brief overviews of the included chapters, the orientation explores the complex interplay of triumph and adversity and advocates for a shift away from simplistic narratives towards a more nuanced understanding of success for PoC in music.

Keywords: adversity ; challenging the canon ; counter-narratives ; cultural capital ; diverse experiences ; intersectional identities ; model minority myth ; monolithic narratives ; nuanced understanding of musical success ; People of Color (PoC) ; reclaiming agency ; representation ; systemic barriers

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References

Barrett, J. R. (2011). Judging quality and fostering excellence in music teaching. Journal of Music Teacher Education, 21(1), 1–6.
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Chaffin, R., & Lemieux, A. F. (2004). General perspectives on achieving musical excellence. In A. Williamon (Ed.). Musical excellence: Strategies and techniques to enhance performance (pp. 19–39). Oxford University Press.
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Delgado, R., & Stefancic, J. (2012). Critical race theory: An introduction (2nd ed.). NYU Press.
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Rothstein, R. (2017). The color of law: A forgotten history of how our government segregated America. Liveright Publishing.178
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References

Barrett, J. R. (2011). Judging quality and fostering excellence in music teaching. Journal of Music Teacher Education, 21(1), 1–6.
[Google Scholar]
Cayari, C. (2021). The education of Asian American music professionals: Exploration and development of ethnic identity. Bulletin of the Council for Research in Music Education, (228), 7–24. https://doi.org/10.5406/bulcouresmusedu.228.0007
[Google Scholar]
Chaffin, R., & Lemieux, A. F. (2004). General perspectives on achieving musical excellence. In A. Williamon (Ed.). Musical excellence: Strategies and techniques to enhance performance (pp. 19–39). Oxford University Press.
[Google Scholar]
Delgado, R., & Stefancic, J. (2012). Critical race theory: An introduction (2nd ed.). NYU Press.
[Google Scholar]
Lee, S. J. (2015). Unraveling the “model minority” stereotype: Listening to Asian American youth (2nd ed.). Teachers College Press.
[Google Scholar]
Rothstein, R. (2017). The color of law: A forgotten history of how our government segregated America. Liveright Publishing.178
[Google Scholar]

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