Older amateur keyboard players learning for self-fulfilment

Abstract

This article investigates self-reported music learning experiences of 21 older amateur pianists and electronic keyboard players. Significant changes in their lives and the encouragement of friends were catalysts for returning to or taking up a keyboard instrument as an adult, although not all returners had positive memories of learning a keyboard instrument as children. Most participants had experience of learning democratically in a group, obtaining benefits that usually outweighed the drawbacks of limited time available for individual tuition. Those who also engaged with other musical activities used them to enhance their keyboard skills or used their keyboard learning profitably in them. As an outcome of their learning, the participants were able to sustain a personal and social musical identity. The findings suggest that the interaction and interdependence of music learning, musical motivation and musical identity construction can foster the personal growth needed for achieving self-fulfilment as a mature adult.