This research project documents the evolution of harp pedagogy in twentieth century America. The investigation focused on teaching trends, materials used, and influences that had an impact on the harp community during this period of time. Information for the study was gathered through questionnaires and personal interviews.Seventy-one harp teachers from throughout the United States, divided into three groups based upon experience, completed a survey on harp pedagogy. Respondents answered questions regarding school of harp playing, instructional methods, and the sequencing of technical skills for the beginning student. In addition, teachers provided their opinions about the quantity and quality of harp teaching materials during the twentieth century, and listed important individuals, organizations, and events. Data gathered from surveys was compared for similarities and differences between the three groups.Results indicated that opportunities for harp study increased significantly from 1900-2000, and that 77% of all teaching materials currently in use were written in 1930 or later. The diversity of teaching methods and materials increased as well, with moderately experienced and less experienced teachers being more likely to combine schools of harp playing in their instruction and use a variety of books with beginning students. The more experienced group of teachers tended to have specific opinions about what materials they use in lessons and were more likely to follow a single school of harp playing. A majority of teachers agreed that the quantity of harp teaching materials increased during the twentieth century, but felt that the quality of these materials either stayed the same or declined. / School of Music
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:BSU/oai:cardinalscholar.bsu.edu:handle/179080 |
| Date | January 2003 |
| Creators | Nichelson, Theodore Patrick |
| Contributors | Ester, Don P. |
| Source Sets | Ball State University |
| Detected Language | English |
| Format | iv, 89 leaves ; 28 cm. |
| Source | Virtual Press |
| Coverage | n-us--- |
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