The Process of Musical Acquisition for Traditional String Musicians in the Homeschool Environment

This qualitative study examined how three accomplished traditional string musicians learned music in their homeschool environments. Data were derived from formal interviews of the three musicians. The research framework for this qualitative study is based upon the socio-educational model of second language learning motivation developed by R. C. Gardner (1959, 1985, 2004, 2010) and applied to the study of instrumental music learning motivation by P. D. MacIntyre (2012). Structured interview questions, triangulated by additional informal dialogues, field observations, externally documented sources, and collaboration with an expert review panel were the data collection activities utilized in the research. Five overarching themes emerged: (1) social and cultural surroundings influence musical achievement, (2) the desire to acquire the attributes and acceptance of other musicians supports musical achievement, (3) motivation impacts musical achievement, (4) learning and performing music causes anxiety, and (5) informal learning environments foster musical attainment. The examination of homeschooled, traditional musicians via the overarching themes, may provide valuable insights for educators in the area of acquisition and development of musical skill in high school students