Demographics and motivation of adult group piano students

Abstract

As people are living longer and enjoying better quality of life, there has been a corresponding increase in interest in recreational music-making by adults. This study examined the demographics and motivations of students enrolled in the Community Piano Experience hosted by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln School of Music. Twenty-six participants completed Survey A before beginning the program, while 20 participants completed Survey B at the culmination of their instruction. Interpretation of both surveys demonstrated that these adult piano students were clear about their goals (anticipated rewards) from the outset of piano study. While unsure about the appropriateness of the group instructional environment at the outset of study, the participants were overwhelmingly positive in their assessment of the group environment by the end of the program. Participants were specific regarding what qualities they were seeking in a piano instructor, with certain qualities such as patience, positive demeanor and knowledge/passion for music frequently cited in both surveys.