Cultural Straddling

The School of Music at ASU has had a mariachi ensemble for more than 25 years, which regularly includes a mix of university students and community members. It suggests that Carlos help the authors learn by being as honest as he could about his experiences. The chapter also suggests that he did that to the best of his ability. Every story offers multiple tellings and interpretations (Barrett & Stauffer, 2009; Chase, 2005; Clandinin & Connelly, 2000). Carlos has presented one telling of his story. The chapter identifies some things the authors have learned from Carlos that he hopes to incorporate into his teaching. It discusses the work of other researchers who have helped the authors better understand Carlos’ ability to “straddle” two musical and ethnic cultures. The chapter offers some observations about Carlos’ success in our university’s music teacher education program.