William Harold Fletcher (b. 1923): His Life and Career in Music Education at Oklahoma Christian University, 1950-2012

摘要

The purpose of this study was to examine the life of William Harold Fletcher (b. 1923) and his contributions to music education. The study is divided into a prologue, six chapters, and an epilogue: Early Life (1923-1941), College Studies and Military Service (1941-1948), Central Christian College: The Formative Years (1948-1960), Oklahoma Christian College: The Department of Music (1960-1980), The Department of Music (1980-2012), and Discussion and Conclusion. Fletcher, the first faculty member at Central Christian College (1950), dedicated his career to creating a strong music program for the college (now named Oklahoma Christian University). For the first thirteen years of its existence, Fletcher was the music department's sole full-time faculty member. He conducted, taught, and produced musical productions that were well received by the community. His contributions to music education include teacher, composer, conductor, and philosopher. Though not maintaining a highly politicized career, Fletcher's contribution to the field of music education remains substantial. His teaching methods and passion for music have inspired students for more than sixty years. Fletcher has received multiple honors for his teaching including the dedication of the Oklahoma Christian University music department as "The Harold and Mary Helon Fletcher Center for Music." This dissertation presents a glimpse of William Harold Fletcher the teacher, musician, composer, and free-spirited individual.