Abstract
This study sought to investigate the availability and utilization of instructional materials as prerequisites for students’ academic performance in music in selected secondary schools in Uyo Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Effective teaching and learning of music require adequate instructional materials, yet their scarcity persists in schools. This study critically investigated availability and utilization of music instructional materials. in secondary schools, identified their relationship with students’ academic performance. It also identified challenges and anticipated solutions. A structured questionnaire titled “Availability and Utilization of Music Instructional Materials Questionnaire (AUMIMQ)” was designed and administered to music students selected from the study area. The population for the study comprised 5024 music students and a sample size of 100 respondents, selected through ratified random sampling. Data gathered were analyzed using simple percentages. Findings reveal that limited instructional materials, inadequate teacher training, instructional constraints and inadequate utilization of available materials hinder students’ academic achievement in music. The study concludes that, although the challenges are enormous, they can be lessened or conquered if stakeholders in education business rise to expectation. Recommendations include increased funding, teacher professional development and technology integration to enhance teaching and learning.