Adult music students in a north Australian regional community

: motivations for learning a musical instrument, perceived benefits and pedagogical considerations

Abstract

This research investigated the factors that motivate adult music students, the benefits they have derived from engaging in music learning and practice, and whether the outcomes include a better awareness of self, posture and body use. Participants who responded to an online questionnaire and semi-structured interviews were drawn from local music organisations in Darwin, Northern Territory, Australia. Among the range of motivating factors reported were personal satisfaction, desire to maintain physical and cognitive well-being, need for relaxation and social interaction. Closely linked to these reasons were the beneficial outcomes in terms of an improved sense of self-esteem, spiritual, cognitive and health benefits and overall well-being. A significant finding was that participants were aware of their body use in playing an instrument or singing but felt their movements were not well-coordinated. From a pedagogical perspective, the results of the study suggest that music students may benefit from being trained to apply kinaesthetic awareness in their practice and performance that would also incorporate proper body alignment and coordination. This knowledge may possibly help to make technique more sustainable and prevent injuries while students fulfil their other motivations for engaging in musical activities.

Date of Award	Oct 2018
Original language	English
Supervisor	Martin Jarvis (Supervisor), Birut Zemits (Supervisor) & Mirjam Jonkman (Supervisor)