Adults' Perceptions of Piano Study: Achievements and Experiences

Abstract

The purposes of this investigation were to describe adults' perceptions of piano study, to identify their music and nonmusic interests, and to describe perceptions of home influences related to music. Of the 564 respondents who returned completed questionnaires, 58% studied piano only as children, 15% studied both as children and as adults, and 3% studied only as adults. Those who studied as children cited parents' decision for beginning lessons. Adults were motivated to begin or resume lessons for reasons of skill development and personal pleasure. Three-fourths of respondents reported receiving personal benefits from piano playing, and over half continue to play. Perceptions of piano skills and ratings of lessons were positively related to perceptions of other aspects of lessons, practicing, and playing. This study has implications for instructors of piano in creating a positive environment to promote lifelong enjoyment of piano playing.