The purpose of this study was to explore what motivates faculty and student involvement in this educational environment and how student participation in music coursework contributes to current musical endeavors. The research team utilized a modified explanatory sequential mixed methods design to collect survey data and focus group data from teachers and students at two-year colleges. Faculty respondents indicated that course offerings changed over time in order to attract more students, reflect changes in student or faculty interests, or as a result of changes in enrollment or demographics. Faculty members expressed support by administrators, colleagues, community, students, support staff, and their union as the main contributors to their motivation and satisfaction for teaching at the two-year college. Student respondents reported personal interest in music, personal enjoyment/ social contact, development of musical knowledge, participation in a musical performance experience, and degree requirements as the main purpose for enrolling in music courses. Implications for the profession and suggestions for future research are discussed.