This ethnographic research was conducted at two intensive Scandinavian music academies with the aim of examining the extent to which there is a Nordic approach to advanced instrumental music teaching. Data collected through observations, interviews, and discussions revealed academy structures, instrumental techniques, and the use of metaphors in…

Utilizing Participatory Action Research (PAR), this study centered on the experiences of three young string players and a violin instructor employing storytelling as an approach to enhance expressiveness. Collaborating with the violin instructor to craft an initial approach and framework for the young string players, it was revealed that…

This paper, presented upon receiving the Outstanding Long-Term Achievement in String Research Award at the 2025 American String Teachers Association (ASTA) National Conference in Atlanta, Georgia, explores how faculty at non-doctoral institutions overcame challenges related to limited time and institutional support in developing a body of research…

Considerable practice is needed for success in playing an instrument. However, music students often lack a clear understanding of how to practice on their own. In the present study, we address this issue using action research because we wanted to improve teaching aimed at developing three viola students' perceived productivity and self-awareness…

In every music classroom, nonverbal forces--including immediacy, ensemble setups, and teacher use of space--may impact student outcomes. Immediacy refers to a collection of nonverbal behaviors that communicate psychological closeness. The purpose of this survey study was to examine secondary choir teachers' (N = 137) self-reported immediacy…

Numerous studies have demonstrated the substantial advantages of integrating music education into the overall development of students, particularly in early childhood education. This integration allows for combining music education with various curriculum areas, utilizing its playful and motivating nature as a practical methodological tool for…

Understanding the potential relationships between musicians' different primary personality traits, ages, and their music preferences could be relevant in music teaching and learning. We surveyed participants (N = 362) from four groups: middle school orchestra students, high school orchestra students, collegiate orchestra students, and in-service…

The purpose of this exploratory, quantitative action research study was to determine whether methods coursework and practicum experiences influence pre-service music educators' self-efficacy towards teaching in secondary instrumental music settings. Junior music education students enrolled in an instrumental music methods course (n = 17) and in…

Students receiving Western instrumental music education develop cognitive skills, creativity, and academic achievement. This study examines inequalities in resource availability for Western instrumental music education between urban and rural schools and their impact on student outcomes. A mixed-methods approach was used, combining quantitative…