Teaching music in the preparation of generalist teachers: A Brazilian experience

This article refers to the investigation of the proposal development and evaluation of the results regarding a music course for the preparation of generalist teachers offered in a Brazilian university. Three groups of students participated in a 16 hours course that included diverse components. The participants answered a questionnaire at the beginning of the course and another at the end. The answers, along with several students' comments during the course, showed that the level of confidence with music increased. Comments of the participants included a better understanding about music in education of children and adults. From the music course development it was clear that generalists are able to understand and accomplish some musical activities that could be part of their practice. The music preparation of generalist teachers in university courses was considered insufficient and the participants reinforced the necessity of improving its coverage in the preparation competent professional educators.