Case study examinations of independent piano instruction in India.

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to examine the professional training and development of piano instructors in India through profiles of selected piano pedagogues in order to understand the unique conditions affecting them and their work in Indian society. Five teachers who fulfilled identified criteria were selected from Pune city. The researcher utilized qualitative research techniques for collection and analysis of the data. Multiple data sources included: interviews, videotaped teaching observations and supplemental materials such as questionnaires, teacher lesson plans, and the researcher's notes. Data analysis showed several instructional commonalities among the five subjects, in addition to unique teaching skills. Several themes were identified among the teachers. The common themes were those based on music fundamentals, technical music skills, musical sensitivity, and a philosophy of teaching private piano. The data collected helped provide an overview of the teaching conditions and the non-musical factors that affect piano teaching in India.