Making the Shift

Abstract

This chapter uses Omi and Winant’s racial formation theory to explore the assumptions surrounding race in music education research. Noting that that race cannot be reduced to other sociological concepts such as national identity, ethnicity, or class, the chapter argues that by simplifying or essentializing race, researchers have overlooked nuanced differences within and among racialized groups. Suggesting that existing studies “interpret, represent, or explain racial identities and meanings,” it urges researchers to construct deeper views of the material and social aspects of race in order to develop antiracist research projects. It concludes with considerations for planning, implementing, analyzing, interpreting, publishing, and consuming research on race in music education.