Students’ reflections on changing teachers in one-to-one instrumental music teaching in Finland and Turkey

Abstract

This research focuses on the problematic aspects of changing teachers during the instrumental music studies. The research aims to create awareness on the psychological, social and cultural process of students when there is a situation of changing teachers. The participants of this research are instrumental music students from Turkey and students who study or studied in Finland. This paper takes a close look at the similarities and differences between the reasons of changing teachers by comparing the students’ situations in both countries. The framework of this study is based on the conception that safe space in one-to-one music lessons favours good student-teacher relationships where constructive interaction is key to fruitful learning and progress, and in case of changing teachers, facilitates a smooth transition. The data collection of this research lies in collecting individual students’ experiences through a series of semi-structured interviews, but I have used also my own experiences of changing teachers as a reflective surface. All the participants remain anonymous, because the information they provide for this research is sensitive and private. The findings explicate that factors such as community dynamics inside the class, student–teacher relationship, career planning and network, and communication issues have influence on the student’s decision making in these situations. When changing teachers, it is arguable that psychological pressure and unhealthy teacher-student dynamics are the main factors behind changing a teacher, but even positive relationships can deteriorate after a student changes teachers. The study concludes that an inclusive environment, where teachers get along with their colleagues, favours the development of healthy and durable teacher-student relationships, and makes it easier for students to make these kinds of decisions during their studies. Teachers in instrumental music education should be aware that a student may wish to change their teacher and always keep in mind the students’ best interests, and individual learning and career paths.