A sample of 1060 Malaysian children were surveyed in order to examine differences in their motivation to study music in school and to learn a musical instrument outside of school. Adopting the expectancy-value motivation theory, the children were asked questions concerning their perception of music as being important, useful, interesting, enjoyable and easy/difficult. Results show subtle differences according to the five ethnic groups (Malay Muslims, Chinese Buddhists, Chinese Christians, Indian Hindus and Indian Christians), the children's previous musical experiences and also gender. In general, Chinese Christian and Indian Christian children were more motivated to study music than the other groups, and girls reported an overall higher level of motivation than boys. The results help to frame how music is perceived as a school subject within Malaysian society and suggest priorities for advocating music within the Malaysian educational system. (Contains 23 figures and 5 tables.)