Between Performance and Participation

This chapter explores a number of problems with the traditional approach to instrumental teaching, in particular the dominance of the master-pupil dyad, along with its expectations of pre-determined outcomes for students in a “one-size fits all” mode of expertise development. After Turino, these problems are described as a dichotomy between participatory and presentational performance. The chapter notes that an emphasis on presentational performance can demotivate students and contribute to dropout in instrumental learning. In response to these problems, the chapter explores the concept of a “middle ground” for instrumental teaching, where teachers understand both the social and musical aspects of instrumental learning and provide opportunities for musical development through participatory dialogic pedagogies and opportunities.