Multicultural music education from the perspective of Swedish-speaking teachers and state authorities in Finland

Abstract

ABSTRACT This article addresses minority rights and educational aims in relation to the Nordic welfare state model, discussed through the lens of musical diversity in the increasingly multicultural society of Finland. The topic derives from a research project named “The Minorities in the Minority,” which was carried out in the Swedish-speaking parts of Finland in 2012/2013. The principal question of this investigation was whether, and if so how, teachers in the Swedishspeaking schools in Finland perceive that music in the school environment can provide a basis for the development of multicultural skills. This study is based on qualitative research and content analysis. Empirical data was gathered through focus group interviews with teachers in Swedish-speaking schools, policy documents, and individual interviews of state authorities at the Finnish National Board of Education. Keywords: Multicultural music education, Swedish-speaking schools in Finland, minority perspectives