It has always been human nature to seek answers, find solutions to problems, observe and bring awareness to discoveries. This investigation process has become more sophisticated and daunting over time. However, the curiosity and need to progress remains the same. Many view research as gathering information and using facts to support findings (Leedy & Ormrod, 2010, p. 1-2). However, Leedy and Ormrod (2010), define research as "a systematic process of collecting, analyzing and interpreting information (data) in order to increase our understanding of a phenomenon about which we are interested or concerned" (Leedy & Ormond, 2010, page 2). Nunan's definition (as cited in Mustafa, 2011), describes research as having a “question, problem, hypothesis, data, analysis, and interpretation of the analysis” (p. 24). Achieving the goal is the culmination of the quest; in this case, the goal for conducting doctoral research is to enhance the music education curriculum and provide an excellent learning opportunity for all students, including students with disabilities, to experience academic success. Current music curriculum design appears to be standard for all students, including students with disabilities. Because of inclusion, children with learning disabilities participate in music alongside non-disabled children. In a recent music therapy workshop, teachers expressed concerns about how to support students with learning needs. The investigation into the current music curriculum and the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Act of 2001 raised the following questions: Is NCLB working to meet the learning needs of all students and to support music teachers with educational resources adequate? How do core subject status raters... half of the paper... In-service music teachers' perceptions of fieldwork experiences in a special needs classroom. Journal of Research in Music Education, 57(2), 152-168.Leedy, P. D., & Ormrod, J. E. (2010). Practical Research: Planning and Design Saddle River, NJ: Merrill.Mustafa, R. F. (2011). The POEs of educational research: A concise guide for beginners. International Education Studies, 4(3), 23-30.Pellitteri, J. (2000). Music therapy in the special educational context. Journal of Educational and Psychological Consultation, 11(3&4),379-391. Retrieved from http://www.soundconnectionsmt.com/docs/Music%20Therapy%20in%20Special%20Education.Zdzinski, SF, & Barnes, G.V. (2002). Development and validation of a rope performance rating scale. Journal of Music Education Research, 50(3), 245-255. Retrieved from http://search.proquest.com/docview.214475469? accounted for=