2024 Society for Music Theory Student Social Climate Survey Results

A total of 66 people completed the survey. The following is a breakdown of their responses. Note that not all who completed this survey provided a response for each of the questions, so the number of people who answered a particular question will vary. Additionally, some questions allowed for the selection of multiple options but responses reported here are presented as separate selections.

Gerardo (Gerry) Lopez, Natalie Miller, and Samantha (Sam) Carlock, were responsible for the creation, analysis, and distribution of this survey. All of the labor expended, both by members of the team and outside consultations, was on a volunteer basis.

For additional details and commentary, please refer to the report.

Section 1: Personal Demographic Information

(Q1) Gender Identity

Question Wording: In research, we often must present demographic information in categories. We understand these labels are limiting. If you had to select one of the options below, which one best describes your gender identity?

Response Options and Results for (Q1) Gender Identity
Response Count Percent
Man 36 54.5%
Woman 24 36.4%
Nonbinary 3 4.5%
Gender Queer 2 3.0%
Agender 1 1.5%
Gender Fluid 0 0%
Gender Questioning 0 0%
Māhū, or Muxe, or Two Spirit 0 0%
Other (with option to write-in) 0 0%

(Q2) Transgender Identity

Question Wording: Do you identify as transgender?

Response Options and Results for (Q2) Transgender Identity
Response Count Percent
No 64 97.0%
Yes 2 3.0%

(Q3) Ethnicity

Question Wording: Ethnicity reflects the cultural traditions, values, and practices that are shared by people across generations. When you consider your personal and familial cultural values, traditions, and practices, what labels best describe your ethnicity? (select all that apply)

Response options and results for (Q3) Ethnicity
Response Count Percent
White or European American 42 63.6%
Asian or Asian American 5 7.6%
Hispanic or Latino | White or European American 4 6.1%
Asian or Asian American | White or European American 2 3.0%
Arab, Middle Eastern, or North African | White or European American 1 1.5%
Asian or Asian American | Native American or Alaska Native | White or European American 1 1.5%
Black or African American 1 1.5%
Hispanic or Latino 1 1.5%
Arab, Middle Eastern, or North African 0 0%
Native American or Alaska Native 0 0%
Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander 0 0%
Other (with option to write-in)    
Ashkenazi Jewish 2 3.0%
Jewish 2 3.0%
Brazilian 1 1.5%
Ashkenazi Jewish | White or European American 1 1.5%
Greek | White or European American 1 1.5%
Jewish | White or European American 1 1.5%
Southern Catholic 1 1.5%

(Q4) Sexual Orientation

Question Wording: What is your sexual orientation and/or sexual identity? (select all that apply)

Response Options and Results for (Q4) Sexual Orientation
Response Count Percent
Straight or Heterosexual 39 59.1%
Bisexual 7 10.6%
Bisexual | Pansexual | Queer 3 4.5%
Demisexual 3 4.5%
Gay 3 4.5%
Lesbian 2 3.0%
Lesbian | Queer 2 3.0%
Questioning 2 3.0%
Gay | Sexually Fluid 1 1.5%
Pansexual 1 1.5%
Queer 1 1.5%
Sexually Fluid | Straight or Heterosexual 1 1.5%
Asexual or Aromantic 0 0%
Sexually Fluid 0 0%
Other (with option to write-in)    
Biromantic | Asexual or Aromantic 1 1.5%

(Q5) Class Identity

Question Wording: Thinking about your childhood or upbringing, with which social class did you most closely identify with?

Response Options and Results for (Q5) Class Identity
Response Count Percent
Upper Middle Class 32 48.5%
Lower Middle Class 18 27.3%
Working Class 13 19.7%
Upper Class 2 3.0%
Other (with option to write-in)    
Mixed (Lower/Upper Middle Class) 1 1.5%

(Q6) Dis/Ability Status

Question Wording: We are interested in understanding your experience with conditions that substantially impact major life activities, regardless of whether you seek formal accommodations or have a documented diagnosis. How would you describe your disability/ability status? Please select all that apply.

Response Options and Results for (Q6) Dis/Ability Status
Response Count Percent
None of the Above 34 51.5%
Long-Term Mental Health Condition 10 15.2%
Long-Term Medical Illness | Long-Term Mental Health Condition 3 4.5%
Cognitive Disability | Long-Term Medical Illness | Long-Term Mental Health Condition 2 3.0%
Long-Term Mental Health Condition | Sensory Impairment 2 3.0%
Sensory Impairment 2 3.0%
Cognitive Disability | Learning Disability 1 1.5%
Cognitive Disability | Learning Disability | Long-Term Medical Illness | Sensory Impairment | Sensory Processing or Integration Disorder 1 1.5%
Learning Disability | Long-Term Medical Illness | Sensory Processing or Integration Disorder 1 1.5%
Long-Term Medical Illness 1 1.5%
Long-Term Medical Illness | Mobility Impairment or Physical Disability 1 1.5%
Long-Term Medical Illness | Sensory Processing or Integration Disorder 1 1.5%
Long-Term Mental Health Condition | Sensory Processing or Integration Disorder 1 1.5%
Sensory Processing or Integration Disorder 1 1.5%
Temporary Impairment Resulting from Illness or Injury | None of the Above 1 1.5%
Cognitive Disability 0 0%
Learning Disability 0 0%
Mobility Impairment or Physical Disability 0 0%
Temporary Impairment Resulting from Illness or Injury 0 0%
No Response Provided 2 3.0%
Other (with option to write-in)    
Autism 1 1.5%
Autism | ADHD 1 1.5%

Section 2: Academic Demographic Information

(Q7) Current Educational Degree

Question Wording: I am a(n)...student

Response Options and Results for (Q7) Current Educational Degree
Response Count Percent
PhD, Post-Candidacy 27 40.9%
PhD, Pre-Candidacy 20 30.3%
Master’s Only 16 24.2%
Undergraduate 2 3.0%
Other (with option to write-in)    
Graduate DMA | PhD, Pre-Candidacy 1 1.5%

(Q8) Domestic/International Identity

Question Wording: I am a(n)...student

Response Options and Results for (Q8) Domestic/International Identity
Response Count Percent
Domestic 46 69.7%
International 20 30.3%

(Q9) First-Generation Identity

Question Wording: I am a first-generation college student

Response Options and Results for (Q9) First-Generation Identity
Response Count Percent
No 48 72.7%
Yes 18 27.3%

(Q10) Year in Program

Question Wording: I am in the...year of my program

Response Options and Results for (Q10) Year in Program
Response Count Percent
First 11 16.7%
Second 17 25.8%
Third 13 19.7%
Fourth 5 7.6%
Fifth 12 18.2%
Sixth 5 7.6%
No Response 1 1.5%
Other (with option to write-in)    
In Transition 1 1.5%
It’s Complicated 1 1.5%

(Q11) Area of Study

Question Wording: My current degree program is in (select all that apply)...

Response Options and Results for (Q11) Area of Study
Response Count Percent
Music Theory 55 83.3%
Musicology | Music Theory 3 4.5%
Music Performance | Music Theory 1 1.5%
Ethnomusicology 1 1.5%
Musicology 1 1.5%
Music Education 0 0%
Music Performance 0 0%
Other (with option to write-in)    
Music Psychology | Music Theory 2 3.0%
Music Composition 2 3.0%
Gender and Women’s Studies | Music Theory 1 1.5%

(Q12) SMT Membership

Question Wording: Are you a current student member, meaning you have paid membership dues, of the Society for Music Theory?

Response Options and Results for (Q12) SMT Membership
Response Count Percent
Yes 50 75.8%
No 16 24.2%

Section 3: Institutional Demographic Information

(Q13) Location

Question Wording: My institution is based in...

Response Options and Results for (Q13) Location
Response Count Percent
USA 47 71.2%
Canada 13 19.7%
Mexico 0 0%
No Response 1 1.5%
Other (with option to write-in)    
Germany 2 3.0%
Europe 1 1.5%
Portugal 1 1.5%
UK 1 1.5%

(Q14) Number of Faculty

Question Wording: The total number of faculty associated with my degree program (including adjunct instructors, visiting assistant professors, etc.) is...

Response Options and Results for (Q14) Number of Faculty
Binned Responses Count Percent
4 or less 10 15.2%
5–9 29 43.9%
10+ 24 36.4%
Not Sure 2 3.0%
No Response 1 1.5%

(Q15) Number of Students

Question Wording: The total number of students in my program (including myself) is…

Response Options and Results for (Q15) Number of Students
Binned Responses Count Percent
4 or less 11 16.7%
5–9 17 25.8%
10+ 36 54.5%
Not Sure 1 1.5%
No Response 1 1.5%

(Q16) Advertised Length of Program

Question Wording: The advertised average length of time required for completing my program is…

Response Options and Results for (Q16) Advertised Length of Program
Binned Responses Count Percent
2–3 17 25.8%
4–5 37 56.1%
6–7 7 10.6%
Not Sure 1 1.5%
No Response 4 6.1%

(Q17) Actual Length of Program

Question Wording: The actual average length of time required for completing my program is…

Response Options and Results for (Q17) Actual Length of Program
Binned Responses Count Percent
2–3 17 25.8%
4–5 23 34.8%
6–7 21 31.8%
Not Sure 4 6.1%
No Response 1 1.5%

Section 4 Belongingness Information

Personal

The following are questions related to a respondent’s personal sense of belonging with the world more generally. Ratings were on a 6-point scale, with “Strongly Disagree” corresponding with 1 and “Strongly Agree” corresponding with 6.

(Q18) Disconnection

Question Wording: I feel disconnected from the world around me

Response Options and Results for (Q18) Disconnection
Response Count Percent
1 9 13.6%
2 22 33.3%
3 12 18.2%
4 11 16.7%
5 9 13.6%
6 3 4.5%

Mean = 2.97

(Q19) Togetherness

Question Wording: I have no sense of togetherness with my peers

Response Options and Results for (Q19) Togetherness
Response Count Percent
1 20 30.3%
2 20 30.3%
3 10 15.2%
4 7 10.6%
5 6 9.1%
6 3 4.5%

Mean = 2.52

(Q20) Participation

Question Wording: I don't feel I participate with anyone or any group

Response Options and Results for (Q20) Participation
Response Count Percent
1 32 48.5%
2 19 28.8%
3 5 7.6%
4 5 7.6%
5 5 7.6%
6 0 0%

Mean = 1.97

(Q21) Comfort

Question Wording: I feel more comfortable when someone is constantly with me

Response Options and Results for (Q21) Comfort
Response Count Percent
1 10 15.2%
2 19 28.8%
3 14 21.2%
4 14 21.2%
5 6 9.1%
6 3 4.5%

Mean = 2.94

(Q22) Ease

Question Wording: I'm more at ease doing things together with other people

Response Options and Results for (Q22) Ease
Response Count Percent
1 4 6.1%
2 13 19.7%
3 18 27.3%
4 13 19.7%
5 11 16.7%
6 6 9.1%
No Response 1 1.5%

Mean = 3.49

(Q23) Work

Question Wording: Working side by side with others is more comfortable than working alone

Response Options and Results for (Q23) Work
Response Count Percent
1 6 9.1%
2 12 18.2%
3 18 27.3%
4 14 21.2%
5 10 15.2%
6 6 9.1%

Mean = 3.42

(Q24) People

Question Wording: About how many people outside of your degree program, but still within the field of music theory, have you interacted with over the last year, either in-person or virtually (excluding annual and regional conferences)?

Response Options and Results for (Q24) People
Binned Responses Count Percent
0 6 9.1%
1–4 17 25.8%
5–9 12 18.2%
10+ 27 40.9%
Not Sure 2 3%
No Response 2 3%

Institutional

The following are questions related to a respondent’s institutional sense of belonging. Ratings were on a 6-point scale, with “Strongly Disagree” corresponding with 1 and “Strongly Agree” corresponding with 6.

(Q25) Belonging

Question Wording: I belong in my home institution (area/department/school)

Response Options and Results for (Q25) Belonging
Response Count Percent
1 1 1.5%
2 3 4.5%
3 9 13.6%
4 15 22.7%
5 24 36.4%
6 14 21.2%

Mean = 4.52

(Q26) Exclusion

Question Wording: I feel like an outsider in my home institution (area/department/school)

Response Options and Results for (Q26) Exclusion
Response Count Percent
1 16 24.2%
2 24 36.4%
3 7 10.6%
4 12 18.2%
5 6 9.1%
6 1 1.5%

Mean = 2.56

(Q27) Comfort

Question Wording: I feel comfortable in my home institution (area/department/school)

Response Options and Results for (Q27) Comfort
Response Count Percent
1 1 1.5%
2 4 6.1%
3 7 10.6%
4 13 19.7%
5 23 34.8%
6 18 27.3%

Mean = 4.62

(Q28) Likeness

Question Wording: Other members of my home institution (area/department/school) are a lot like me

Response Options and Results for (Q28) Likeness
Response Count Percent
1 7 10.6%
2 10 15.2%
3 16 24.2%
4 18 27.3%
5 11 16.7%
6 4 6.1%

Mean = 3.42

(Q29) Agreeableness

Question Wording: I get along well with other members of my home institution (area/department/school)

Response Options and Results for (Q29) Agreeableness
Response Count Percent
1 0 0%
2 1 1.5%
3 4 6.1%
4 17 25.8%
5 20 30.3%
6 24 36.4%

Mean = 4.94

(Q30) Support

Question Wording: My specific research interests are supported and valued by my home institution (area/department/school)

Response Options and Results for (Q30) Support
Response Count Percent
1 2 3.0%
2 4 6.1%
3 6 9.1%
4 10 15.2%
5 22 33.3%
6 22 33.3%

Mean = 4.7

(Q31) Belief

Question Wording: If I wanted to, I could potentially do very well as a music theorist

Response Options and Results for (Q31) Belief
Response Count Percent
1 0 0%
2 1 1.5%
3 6 9.1%
4 17 25.8%
5 21 31.8%
6 21 31.8%

Mean = 4.83

(Q32) Institutional Experiences

Question Wording: Can you describe an experience you had at your institution that influenced how you feel in relation to the field of music theory?

Of the 66 participants, only 42 (63.6%) provided a response for this question.

Tags and results for (Q32) Institutional Experiences
Valence of Experiences Count Percent of Responses Percent of Total
Positive 22 52.4% 33.3%
Negative 12 28.6% 18.2%
Mixed 6 14.3% 9.1%
Ambiguous 2 4.8% 3.0%
Suggestion 0 0% 0%
Not Tagged 0 0.0% 0%
No Response 24 36.4%
Social Interaction Count Percent of Responses Percent of Total
Nonspecific 16 38.1% 24.2%
Student-to-Faculty 15 35.7% 22.7%
Student-to-Student | Student-to-Faculty 4 9.5% 6.1%
Nonspecific | Student-to-Faculty 2 4.8% 3.0%
Student-to-Student 1 2.4% 1.5%
Nonspecific | Student-to-Student 1 2.4% 1.5%
Not Tagged 3 7.1% 4.5%
No Response 24 36.4%
Related Institution Count Percent of Responses Percent of Total
School 37 88.1% 56.1%
School | SMT 4 9.5% 6.1%
SMT 1 2.4% 1.5%
Not Tagged 0 0% 0%
No Response 24 36.4%
SMT Programming Count Percent of Responses Percent of Total
Interest Groups 1 2.4% 1.5%
Conference Guides 0 0% 0%
Dissertation Fellowships 0 0% 0%
General (SMT specific) 0 0% 0%
General (AMS/SEM/etc.) 0 0% 0%
Mentoring Network 0 0% 0%
School Fair 0 0% 0%
Student Breakfast 0 0% 0%
Student Workshops 0 0% 0%
Travel Grants 0 0% 0%
Not Tagged 41 97.6% 62.1%
No Response 24 36.4%
Related to Identity Count Percent of Responses Percent of Total
Area of Study 19 45.2% 28.8%
Degree Program | Area of Study 11 26.2% 16.7%
Degree Program 4 9.5% 6.1%
Ethnicity | Area of Study 2 4.8% 3.0%
Class | Non/Domestic 1 2.4% 1.5%
Dis/Ability 1 2.4% 1.5%
Dis/Ability | Degree Program 1 2.4% 1.5%
Gender | Area of Study 1 2.4% 1.5%
Class 0 0% 0%
Ethnicity 0 0% 0%
First-Generation 0 0% 0%
Gender 0 0% 0%
Non/Domestic 0 0% 0%
Sexual Orientation 0 0% 0%
Transgender 0 0% 0%
Not Tagged 2 4.8% 3.0%
No Response 24 36.4%
Post-Hoc Tags Count Percent of Responses Percent of Total
Teaching 6 14.3% 9.1%
Quality of Work/Research 5 11.9% 7.6%
Comprehensive Exams 2 4.8% 3.0%
Teaching | Quality of Work/Research 2 4.8% 3.0%
Conference Accessibility 0 0% 0%
Not Tagged 27 64.3% 40.9%
No Response 24 36.4%
Feeling Supported Count Percent of Responses Percent of Total
Yes 18 42.9% 27.3%
No 6 14.3% 9.1%
Mixed 5 11.9% 7.6%
Not Tagged 13 31.0% 19.7%
No Response 24 36.4%

SMT

The following are questions related to a respondent’s societal (SMT) sense of belonging. Ratings were on a 6-point scale, with “Strongly Disagree” corresponding with 1 and “Strongly Agree” corresponding with 6.

(Q33) Belonging

Question Wording: I belong in the SMT

Response Options and Results for (Q33) Belonging
Response Count Percent
1 2 3.0%
2 11 16.7%
3 12 18.2%
4 15 22.7%
5 17 25.8%
6 7 10.6%
No Response 2 3.0%

Mean = 3.86

(Q34) Exclusion

Question Wording: I feel like an outsider in the SMT

Response Options and Results for (Q34) Exclusion
Response Count Percent
1 5 7.6%
2 12 18.2%
3 16 24.2%
4 16 24.2%
5 10 15.2%
6 6 9.1%
No Response 1 1.5%

Mean = 3.49

(Q35) Comfort

Question Wording: I feel comfortable being a member of the SMT

Response Options and Results for (Q35) Comfort
Response Count Percent
1 1 1.5%
2 4 6.1%
3 16 24.2%
4 18 27.3%
5 11 16.7%
6 14 21.2%
No Response 2 3.0%

Mean = 4.19

(Q36) Likeness

Question Wording: Other members of the SMT are a lot like me

Response Options and Results for (Q36) Likeness
Response Count Percent
1 4 6.1%
2 12 18.2%
3 23 34.8%
4 16 24.2%
5 8 12.1%
6 2 3.0%
No Response 1 1.5%

Mean = 3.28

(Q37) Agreeableness

Question Wording: I get along well with other members of the SMT

Response Options and Results for (Q37) Agreeableness
Response Count Percent
1 0 0%
2 4 6.1%
3 5 7.6%
4 27 40.9%
5 18 27.3%
6 11 16.7%
No Response 1 1.5%

Mean = 4.42

(Q38) Support

Question Wording: My specific research interests are supported and valued by the SMT

Response Options and Results for (Q38) Support
Response Count Percent
1 2 3.0%
2 10 15.2%
3 14 21.2%
4 20 30.3%
5 9 13.6%
6 10 15.2%
No Response 1 1.5%

Mean = 3.83

(Q39) Factors

Question Wording: What specific factors most directly influence how you feel in relation to the SMT and the wider music theory community (select all that apply)?

Response Options and Results for (Q39) Factors
Response Count Percent
Primary Research Interests 51 35.4%
Prior Educational Experience(s) 25 17.4%
Gender 19 13.2%
Social Class 18 12.5%
Ethnicity 10 6.9%
Sexuality 7 4.9%
Disability/Ability Status 5 3.5%
No Response 2 1.4%
Other (with option to write-in)    
Age 2 1.4%
Focus on Research vs Teaching 1 0.7%
Lack of Teaching Experience 1 0.7%
Nationality (not American) 1 0.7%
Political Views 1 0.7%
What Counts as Success 1 0.7%

(Q40) Conference Attendance

Question Wording: How many annual SMT conferences (in-person or virtually) have you attended?

Response Options and Results for (Q40) Conference Attendance
Binned Responses Count Percent
0 13 19.7%
1–2 17 25.8%
3–4 21 31.8%
5+ 13 19.7%
No Response 2 3.0%

(Q41) Conference Experiences

Question Wording: If you have attended, can you describe an experience you had at an SMT annual conference (or other SMT sponsored events) that influenced how you feel in relation to the field of music theory?

Of 66 participants, only 33 (50%) provided a response to this question.

Valence of Experiences Count Percent of Responses Percent of Total
Negative 16 48.5% 24.2%
Positive 11 33.3% 16.7%
Mixed 6 18.2% 9.1%
Ambiguous 0 0% 0%
Suggestion 0 0% 0%
Not Tagged 0 0% 0%
No Response 33 50.0%
Social Interaction Count Percent of Responses Percent of Total
Nonspecific 19 57.6% 28.8%
Student-to-Faculty 7 21.2% 10.6%
Student-to-Student | Student-to-Faculty 3 9.1% 4.5%
Student-to-Faculty | Nonspecific 2 6.1% 3.0%
Student-to-Student 2 6.1% 3.0%
Not Tagged 0 0% 0%
No Response 33 50.0%
Institution Related Count Percent of Responses Percent of Total
SMT 32 97.0% 48.5%
School | SMT 1 3.0% 1.5%
School 0 0% 0%
Not Tagged 0 0% 0%
No Response 33 50.0%
SMT Programming Count Percent of Responses Percent of Total
General (SMT specific) 5 15.2% 7.6%
Interest Groups 4 12.1% 6.1%
Interest Groups | General (SMT specific) 4 12.1% 6.1%
Mentoring Network | General (SMT specific) 1 3.0% 1.5%
Mentoring Network | Student Breakfast | Student Workshops | School Fair | Interest Groups | General (SMT specific) 1 3.0% 1.5%
Student Workshops 1 3.0% 1.5%
Conference Guides 0 0% 0%
Dissertation Fellowships 0 0% 0%
General (AMS/SEM/etc.) 0 0% 0%
School Fair 0 0% 0%
Student Breakfast 0 0% 0%
Travel Grants 0 0% 0%
Not Tagged 17 51.5% 25.8%
No Response 33 50.0%
Related to Identity Count Percent of Responses Percent of Total
Area of Study 15 45.5% 22.7%
Gender | Ethnicity | Area of Study 3 9.1% 4.5%
Degree Program | Area of Study 1 3.0% 1.5%
Ethnicity | Area of Study 1 3.0% 1.5%
Ethnicity | Class 1 3.0% 1.5%
Gender | Class | Degree Program | Area of Study 1 3.0% 1.5%
Gender | Ethnicity | Sexuality | Non/Domestic | Area of Study 1 3.0% 1.5%
Class 0 0% 0%
Degree Program 0 0% 0%
Dis/Ability 0 0% 0%
Ethnicity 0 0% 0%
First-Generation 0 0% 0%
Non/Domestic 0 0% 0%
Sexual Orientation 0 0% 0%
Transgender 0 0% 0%
Not Tagged 10 30.3% 15.2%
No Response 33 50.0%
Post-Hoc Tags Count Percent of Responses Percent of Total
Quality of Work/Research 4 12.1% 6.1%
Conference Accessibility 2 6.1% 3.0%
Conference Accessibility | Quality of Work/Research 1 3.0% 1.5%
Comprehensive Exams 0 0% 0%
Teaching 0 0% 0%
Not Tagged 26 78.8% 39.4%
No Response 33 50.0%
Feeling Supported Count Percent of Responses Percent of Total
No 9 27.3% 13.6%
Yes 6 18.2% 9.1%
Mixed 1 3.0% 1.5%
Not Tagged 17 51.5% 25.8%
No Response 33 50.0%

Section 5: Policies and Initiatives Feedback

Ongoing Programs

Questions 42–48 ask respondents about their familiarity with ongoing programs. Ratings were on a 5-point scale, with “Unfamiliar” corresponding with 1 and “Very Familiar” corresponding with 5.

(Q42) SMT Dissertation Fellowships

Question Wording: SMT Dissertation Fellowships

Response Options and Results for (Q42) SMT Dissertation Fellowships
Response Count Percent
1 16 24.2%
2 11 16.7%
3 15 22.7%
4 10 15.2%
5 13 19.7%
No Response 1 1.5%

Mean = 2.89

(Q43) SMT Mentoring Network

Question Wording: SMT Mentoring Network

Response Options and Results for (Q43) SMT Mentoring Network
Response Count Percent
1 20 30.3%
2 21 31.8%
3 12 18.2%
4 11 16.7%
5 1 1.5%
No Response 1 1.5%

Mean = 2.26

(Q44) Conference Travel Grants

Question Wording: Conference Travel Grants (Accessibility/Family Care/International/Minority)

Response Options and Results for (Q44) Conference Travel Grants
Response Count Percent
1 14 21.2%
2 9 13.6%
3 15 22.7%
4 21 31.8%
5 6 9.1%
No Response 1 1.5%

Mean = 2.94

(Q45) First-Time Conference Guide

Question Wording: First-Time Conference Guide

Response Options and Results for (Q45) First-Time Conference Guide
Response Count Percent
1 16 24.2%
2 17 25.8%
3 10 15.2%
4 15 22.7%
5 7 10.6%
No Response 1 1.5%

Mean = 2.69

(Q46) Student Breakfast

Question Wording: Graduate student breakfast at the annual conference

Response Options and Results for (Q46) Student Breakfast
Response Count Percent
1 7 10.6%
2 6 9.1%
3 10 15.2%
4 17 25.8%
5 24 36.4%
No Response 2 3.0%

Mean = 3.7

(Q47) Student Workshops

Question Wording: Graduate student workshops at the annual conference

Response Options and Results for (Q47) Student Workshops
Response Count Percent
1 4 6.1%
2 11 16.7%
3 8 12.1%
4 19 28.8%
5 23 34.8%
No Response 1 1.5%

Mean = 3.71

(Q48) School Fair

Question Wording: Graduate student school fair at the annual conference

Response Options and Results for (Q48) School Fair
Response Count Percent
1 14 21.2%
2 6 9.1%
3 6 9.1%
4 21 31.8%
5 18 27.3%
No Response 1 1.5%

Mean = 3.35

Programming Effectiveness

Questions 49–55 ask respondents to rate the perceived effectiveness of ongoing programs. Ratings were on a 5-point scale, with “Ineffective” corresponding with 1 and “Very Effective” corresponding with 5.

(Q49) SMT Dissertation Fellowships

Question Wording: SMT Dissertation Fellowships

Response Options and Results for (Q49) SMT Dissertation Fellowships
Response Count Percent
1 3 4.5%
2 6 9.1%
3 22 33.3%
4 12 18.2%
5 13 19.7%
No Response 10 15.2%

Mean = 3.46

(Q50) SMT Mentoring Network

Question Wording: SMT Mentoring Network

Response Options and Results for (Q50) SMT Mentoring Network
Response Count Percent
1 5 7.6%
2 3 4.5%
3 28 42.4%
4 13 19.7%
5 4 6.1%
No Response 13 19.7%

Mean = 3.15

(Q51) Conference Travel Grants

Question Wording: Conference Travel Grants (Accessibility/Family Care/International/Minority)

Response Options and Results for (Q51) Conference Travel Grants
Response Count Percent
1 2 3.0%
2 4 6.1%
3 23 34.8%
4 14 21.2%
5 12 18.2%
No Response 11 16.7%

Mean = 3.55

(Q52) First-Time Conference Guide

Question Wording: First-Time Conference Guide

Response Options and Results for (Q52) First-Time Conference Guide
Response Count Percent
1 3 4.5%
2 5 7.6%
3 21 31.8%
4 14 21.2%
5 10 15.2%
No Response 13 19.7%

Mean = 3.43

(Q53) Student Breakfast

Question Wording: Graduate student breakfast at the annual conference

Response Options and Results for (Q53) Student Breakfast
Response Count Percent
1 2 3.0%
2 4 6.1%
3 13 19.7%
4 26 39.4%
5 16 24.2%
No Response 5 7.6%

Mean = 3.82

(Q54) Student Workshops

Question Wording: Graduate student workshops at the annual conference

Response Options and Results for (Q54) Student Workshops
Response Count Percent
1 3 4.5%
2 0 0%
3 20 30.3%
4 18 27.3%
5 16 24.2%
No Response 9 13.6%

Mean = 3.77

(Q55) Student Fair

Question Wording: Graduate student school fair at the annual conference

Response Options and Results for (Q55) Student Fair
Response Count Percent
1 2 3.0%
2 3 4.5%
3 16 24.2%
4 16 24.2%
5 16 24.2%
No Response 13 19.7%

Mean = 3.77

(Q56) Programming Changes

Question Wording: Are there some changes you would like to see to current programing listed above?

Of 66 participants, only 14 (21%) provided a response to this question.

Tags and results for (Q56) Programming Changes
Valence of Experiences Count Percent of Response Percent of Total
Suggestion 12 85.7% 18.2%
Ambiguous 1 7.1% 1.5%
Negative 1 7.1% 1.5%
Mixed 0 0% 0%
Positive 0 0% 0%
Not Tagged 0 0% 0%
No Response 52 78.8%
Social Interaction Count Percent of Response Percent of Total
Student-to-Student 0 0% 0%
Student-to-Faculty 0 0% 0%
Nonspecific 0 0% 0%
Not Tagged 14 100% 21.2%
No Response 52 78.8%
Institution Related Count Percent of Response Percent of Total
School 0 0% 0%
SMT 0 0% 0%
Not Tagged 14 100% 21.2%
No Response 52 78.8%
SMT Programming Count Percent of Response Percent of Total
Dissertation Fellowships 3 21.4% 4.5%
General (SMT specific) 2 14.3% 3.0%
Mentoring Network 2 14.3% 3.0%
Conference Guides 1 7.1% 1.5%
Dissertation Fellowships | General (SMT specific) 1 7.1% 1.5%
School Fair 1 7.1% 1.5%
Student Breakfast 1 7.1% 1.5%
Travel Grants 1 7.1% 1.5%
General (AMS/SEM/etc.) 0 0% 0%
Interest Groups 0 0% 0%
Student Workshops 0 0% 0%
Not Tagged 2 14.3% 3.0%
No Response 52 78.8%
Related to Identity Count Percent of Response Percent of Total
Area of Study 1 7.1% 1.5%
Ethnicity 1 7.1% 1.5%
Gender 0 0% 0%
Class 0 0% 0%
Degree Program 0 0% 0%
Dis/Ability 0 0% 0%
First-Generation 0 0% 0%
Non/Domestic 0 0% 0%
Sexual Orientation 0 0% 0%
Transgender 0 0% 0%
Not Tagged 12 85.7% 18.2%
No Response 52 78.8%
Post-Hoc Tags Count Percent of Response Percent of Total
Conference Accessibility 1 7.1% 1.5%
Comprehensive Exams 0 0% 0%
Teaching 0 0% 0%
Quality of Work/Research 0 0% 0%
Not Tagged 13 92.9% 19.7%
No Response 52 78.8%
Feeling Supported Count Percent of Response Percent of Total
No 0 0% 0%
Yes 0 0% 0%
Not Tagged 14 100% 21.2%
No Response 52 78.8%

New Programming

(Q57) Student-Focused Programming

Question Wording: One of the potential outcomes of this survey is the development of a few initiatives directed at social activities. Please rate how receptive you would be to the following, with 1 being “very receptive” and 7 being “least receptive”. Note that this is a ranked-choice prompt, so make only one unique selection for each item in the list (e.g. each item listed on the left-hand side should have a unique number selected).

Response Options and Results for (Q57) Student-Focused Programming
Initiatives Average Ranking
In-person conference for students-only 3.4
Society-wide organized virtual conference for students-only 3.7
Regionally organized in-person social event for students-only 3.8
Specific professional development opportunities 3.8
Student-only writing groups 4.2
Regionally organized virtual social event for students-only 4.5
Society-wide organized virtual social event for students-only 4.6

(Q58) Student Committee

Question Wording: Would you be in favor or against the formation of a student group/committee within the SMT that is made up of current students and focused on advocating for student-specific issues and/or concerns? (with 1 being “Strongly Against” and 5 being “Strongly Favor”)

Response Options and Results for (Q58) Student Committee
Response Count Percent
1 0 0%
2 1 1.5%
3 4 6.1%
4 20 30.3%
5 39 59.1%
No Response 2 3.0%

Mean = 4.52

(Q59) Novel Ideas

Question Wording: Are there some ideas you would like to share that were not listed above that would make you feel more included in the SMT community?

Of 66 participants, only 20 (30.3%) provided a response for this question.

Tags and results for (Q59) Novel Ideas
Valence of Experiences Count Percent of Responses Percent of Total
Suggestion 19 95.0% 28.8%
Mixed 1 5.0% 1.5%
Ambiguous 0 0% 0%
Negative 0 0% 0%
Positive 0 0% 0%
Not Tagged 0 0% 0%
No Response 46 69.7%
Social Interaction Count Percent of Responses Percent of Total
Student-to-Student 2 10.0% 3.0%
Student-to-Faculty 1 5.0% 1.5%
Student-to-Student | Student-to-Faculty 1 5.0% 1.5%
Nonspecific 0 0% 0%
Not Tagged 16 80.0% 24.2%
No Response 46 69.7%
Institution Related Count Percent of Responses Percent of Total
SMT 3 15.0% 4.5%
School 0 0% 0%
School | SMT 1 5.0% 1.5%
Not Tagged 16 80.0% 24.2%
No Response 46 69.7%
SMT Programming Count Percent of Responses Percent of Total
General (SMT specific) 11 55.0% 16.7%
Interest Groups 1 5.0% 1.5%
Interest Groups | General (SMT specific) 1 5.0% 1.5%
Student Workshops 1 5.0% 1.5%
Student Workshops | Interest Groups 1 5.0% 1.5%
Conference Guides 0 0% 0%
Dissertation Fellowships 0 0% 0%
General (AMS/SEM/etc.) 0 0% 0%
Mentoring Network 0 0% 0%
Travel Grants 0 0% 0%
School Fair 0 0% 0%
Student Breakfast 0 0% 0%
Not Tagged 5 25.0% 7.6%
No Response 46 69.7%
Related to Identity Count Percent of Responses Percent of Total
Area of Study 2 10.0% 3.0%
Degree Program 2 10.0% 3.0%
Class | First-Generation 1 5.0% 1.5%
Degree Program | Area of Study 1 5.0% 1.5%
Gender | Ethnicity | Area of Study 1 5.0% 1.5%
Gender | Transgender | Ethnicity | Dis/Ability 1 5.0% 1.5%
Non/Domestic 1 5.0% 1.5%
Class 0 0% 0%
Dis/Ability 0 0% 0%
Ethnicity 0 0% 0%
First-Generation 0 0% 0%
Gender 0 0% 0%
Non/Domestic 0 0% 0%
Sexual Orientation 0 0% 0%
Transgender 0 0% 0%
Not Tagged 11 55.0% 16.7%
No Response 46 69.7%
Post-Hoc Tags Count Percent of Responses Percent of Total
Conference Accessibility 0 0% 0%
Comprehensive Exams 0 0% 0%
Teaching 0 0% 0%
Quality of Work/Research 0 0% 0%
Not Tagged 20 100% 30.3%
No Response 46 69.7%
Feeling Supported Count Percent of Responses Percent of Total
No 1 5.0% 1.5%
Mixed 1 5.0% 1.5%
Yes 0 0% 0%
Not Tagged 18 90.0% 27.3%
No Response 46 69.7%

(Q60) Novel Changes

Question Wording: More generally, what changes in the SMT (i.e. new initiatives, policies, and/or programs) would make you feel more included within the SMT and the surrounding music theory community? This can include both adding new things and taking away or changing existing things, especially if there is something that makes you feel excluded from the SMT community.

Of 66 participants, only 23 (34.8%) provided a response for this question.

Tags and results for (Q60) Novel Changes
Valence of Experiences Count Percent of Responses Percent of Total
Suggestion 22 95.7% 33.3%
Mixed 1 4.3% 1.5%
Ambiguous 0 0% 0%
Negative 0 0% 0%
Positive 0 0% 0%
Not Tagged 0 0% 0%
No Response 43 65.2%
Social Interaction Count Percent of Responses Percent of Total
Student-to-Student | Student-to-Faculty 1 4.3% 1.5%
Student-to-Student 0 0% 0%
Student-to-Faculty 0 0% 0%
Nonspecific 0 0% 0%
Not Tagged 22 95.7% 33.3%
No Response 43 65.2%
Institution Related Count Percent of Responses Percent of Total
SMT 10 43.4% 15.1%
School 0 0% 0%
Not Tagged 13 56.5% 19.7%
No Response 43 65.2%
SMT Programming Count Percent of Responses Percent of Total
General (SMT specific) 19 82.6% 28.8%
Interest Groups 1 4.3% 1.5%
Interest Groups | General (SMT specific) 1 4.3% 1.5%
Conference Guides 0 0% 0%
Dissertation Fellowships 0 0% 0%
General (AMS/SEM/etc.) 0 0% 0%
Mentoring Network 0 0% 0%
School Fair 0 0% 0%
Student Breakfast 0 0% 0%
Student Workshops 0 0% 0%
Travel Grants 0 0% 0%
Not Tagged 2 8.6% 3.0%
No Response 43 65.2%
Related to Identity Count Percent of Responses Percent of Total
Area of Study 5 21.7% 7.6%
Class 1 4.3% 1.5%
Class | Non/Domestic 1 4.3% 1.5%
Degree Program 1 4.3% 1.5%
Degree Program | Non/Domestic 1 4.3% 1.5%
Ethnicity 1 4.3% 1.5%
Ethnicity | Area of Study 1 4.3% 1.5%
Non/Domestic 1 4.3% 1.5%
Dis/Ability 0 0% 0%
First-Generation 0 0% 0%
Gender 0 0% 0%
Non/Domestic 0 0% 0%
Sexual Orientation 0 0% 0%
Transgender 0 0% 0%
Not Tagged 11 47.8% 16.7%
No Response 43 65.2%
Post-Hoc Tags Count Percent of Responses Percent of Total
Conference Accessibility 4 17.3% 6.0%
Quality of Work/Research 1 4.3% 1.5%
Comprehensive Exams 0 0% 0%
Teaching 0 0% 0%
Not Tagged 18 78.3% 27.3%
No Response 43 65.2%
Feeling Supported Count Percent of Responses Percent of Total
No 2 8.7% 3.0%
Yes 0 0% 0%
Not Tagged 21 91.3% 31.8%
No Response 43 65.2%

(Q61) General Open Response

Question Wording: Are there any other details you would like to share about your experiences within the field of music theory as they relate your sense of belonging, personally and academically?

Of 66 participants, only 11 (16.7%) provided an answer for this question.

Tags and results for (Q61) General Open Response
Valence of Experiences Count Percent of Responses Percent of Total
Suggestion 9 81.8% 13.6%
Positive 2 18.2% 3.0%
Ambiguous 0 0% 0%
Mixed 0 0% 0%
Negative 0 0% 0%
Not Tagged 0 0% 0%
No Response 55 83.3%
Social Interaction Count Percent of Responses Percent of Total
Nonspecific 1 9.1% 1.5%
Student-to-Faculty 1 9.1% 1.5%
Student-to-Student 0 0% 0%
Not Tagged 9 81.8% 13.6%
No Response 55 83.3%
Institution Related Count Percent of Responses Percent of Total
School 2 18.2% 3.0%
SMT 1 9.1% 1.5%
Not Tagged 8 72.7% 12.1%
No Response 55 83.3%
SMT Programming Count Percent of Responses Percent of Total
General (SMT specific) 3 27.3% 4.5%
Conference Guides 0 0% 0%
Dissertation Fellowships 0 0% 0%
General (AMS/SEM/etc.) 0 0% 0%
Interest Groups 0 0% 0%
Mentoring Network 0 0% 0%
School Fair 0 0% 0%
Student Breakfast 0 0% 0%
Student Workshops 0 0% 0%
Travel Grants 0 0% 0%
Not Tagged 8 72.7% 12.1%
No Response 55 83.3%
Related to Identity Count Percent of Responses Percent of Total
Class 2 18.2% 3.0%
Area of Study 1 9.1% 1.5%
Degree Program | Area of Study 1 9.1% 1.5%
Gender | Ethnicity 1 9.1% 1.5%
Dis/Ability 0 0% 0%
Ethnicity 0 0% 0%
First-Generation 0 0% 0%
Gender 0 0% 0%
Non/Domestic 0 0% 0%
Sexual Orientation 0 0% 0%
Transgender 0 0% 0%
Not Tagged 6 54.5% 9.1%
No Response 55 83.3%
Post-Hoc Tags Count Percent of Responses Percent of Total
Conference Accessibility 2 18.2% 3.0%
Quality of Work/Research 1 9.1% 1.5%
Comprehensive Exams 0 0% 0%
Teaching 0 0% 0%
Not Tagged 8 72.7% 12.1%
No Response 55 83.3%
Feeling Supported Count Percent of Responses Percent of Total
Yes 1 9.1% 1.5%
No 0 0% 0%
Not Tagged 10 90.9% 15.2%
No Response 55 83.3%