A RETIRADA OU A MANUTENÇÃO DO THE: reflexões sobre a democratização do ensino musical dentro dos paradigmas neoliberal e da colonialidade do saber a partir de um estudo das Licenciaturas em Música presenciais da cidade de São Luís/MA

Abstract

The Specific Skills Test (THE) in music is a theoretical and practical exam used to assess whether candidates possess sufficient basic musical knowledge to successfully complete the Music Education degree program. This research is justified by the need to analyze how retaining or eliminating the THE affects student enrollment and the democratization of access to music education. The study employs a qualitative, exploratory methodology based on questionnaires and interviews with professors from UEMA and UFMA, seeking to understand their perceptions of the test. It examined the views of music professors at UEMA and UFMA regarding the THE as a selection tool for music education degree programs. Data collection was conducted via an online questionnaire emailed to program coordinators. Participants argue that the test evaluates prior musical knowledge essential for mastering technical courses, ensuring alignment between the program's profile and that of incoming students. The THE can serve as a diagnostic tool and foster technical maturity. Some participants advocate for the complete elimination of the THE to democratize access. Others propose hybrid models that combine traditional criteria with the assessment of diverse experiences, popular repertoires, and broad cultural expressions