Abstract

The article addresses Bildung from a Finnish perspective and asks: Are there specific meanings of Bildung that are typical of a certain time and place? The author applies a multi-layered theory of critical positivism, adapting its three-level structure to music education and the concept of Bildung. First, she discusses Bildung as a fundamental value in education, especially in the light of ideas presented by J. A. Hollo, a Finnish philosopher in education, who emphasizes a broad education, including the arts. Secondly, she examines Bildung as part of an expert culture of Finnish music teachers, and thirdly, as an educational aim in legislation. Although Bildung is under threat in today’s society, the article stresses that a Finnish view of Bildung emphasizes its social dimensions, according to which everyone has a right to a broad education, including music.