Classical soloists' life histories and the music conservatoire. (May 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Palmer, Tim; Baker, David
• Is Part Of: International journal of music education. Volume 39:Number 2(2021)
• Page Start: 167
• Page End: 186
• Publication Date: 2021-05
• Subjects: Career aspirations -- conservatoires -- music in Higher Education -- soloists -- virtuosi; Music -- Instruction and study -- Periodicals; 780.7
• DOI: 10.1177/0255761421991154
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0255-7614

Abstract

This article explores the life histories of virtuoso classical music soloists with particular reference to conservatoire provision. Detailed life-history interviews were conducted with six virtuosi between May 2018 and January 2019. These participants were three singers, two cellists and a concert pianist. Resultant qualitative data were stored in an NVivo software database and understood through a process of analytic induction. Key findings spotlight the significance of Higher Education, a connection between broad creative and cultural interest and musical excellence, and a significant role for conservatoires in diversifying their training and easing transition into the career. The soloists also warned of dangers relating to controlling teachers, loss of autonomy and a need to convey their career realities to students.