The Benefits of Adult Piano Study as Self-Reported by Selected Adult Piano Students

Adult piano students (N = 711) from 24 states across the U.S. rated the existence and importance of 31 potential benefits of adult piano study. Benefits selected from existing adult music and leisure-benefit research were organized into three categories: Personal, Skill, and Social/Cultural. The category of Skill Benefits was the most-agreed-upon and highest-rated category. Personal Benefits were also rated highly, particularly benefits related to Self-Actualization and Fun/Enjoyment. Social/Cultural Benefits were the least-agreed-upon and rated as the least important benefits. The most-agreed-upon benefits were Skill Improvement, Musical Knowledge, Musicianship, Accomplishment, Skill Refinement, Technique, and Play/Fun. The highest-rated benefits, in order of importance, were Dream Fulfilled, Technique, Accomplishment, Escape from Routine, Skill Improvement, Musicianship, Musical Knowledge, Play/Fun, Skill Refinement, and Personal Growth. Findings suggest that students are interested in technical improvement, but they also place high value on the enjoyment and self-growth that piano study provides.