Balance and Blend: Quality of Life and Work-Life Balance in Military Reservist Band Directors

Despite the research on work-life balance and stress management in various fields and stages of life, the perspectives of music educators serving in the military as part-time reservist musicians have yet to be explored. Teachers with a desire to serve in the military may find the part-time status appealing, as most duties are performed on weekends or during the summer. While there are many benefits to serving one’s country as a reservist, this second career may place added stress on the service members and their families. This qualitative hermeneutic phenomenological study will gather data via qualitative surveys collected from Military Reservist Band Directors (MRBDs), combining this information with the author’s own experience as an MRBD to learn more about the lived experiences of these individuals and to identify issues related to work-life balance. Investigation into this topic will seek to understand how these individuals use various routines and practices to manage stress and maintain a healthy work-life balance. The findings may highlight how educators can utilize defined priorities and time management strategies, supportive work environments, and attention to spiritual and social health in achieving a balanced and rewarding life. The implications of these findings will be discussed as they may apply to future policy decisions in education. Recommendations will be made for future research to better support the mental health and overall well-being of military reservists, especially those working in music education.