INFLUENCE OF DIFFERENT PERIODS ON TEACHING CLASSICAL WESTERN MUSIC IN TÜRKIYE: EXAMPLE OF PIANO EDUCATION

Abstract

This study compares the piano curricula of conservatories in Türkiye that have been actively operating in the education system for the past 10 years, offering 12- and 4-year classical Western music programs, and measures the repertoire and performance levels of students at entry and graduation stages in these two different institutional structures. The core issue of the study is to determine the extent to which these two programs, structured over different durations, diverge in terms of the repertoire breadth and performance competencies that they provide to students.First, the piano curricula of conservatories delivering education of these two different lengths were technically examined, and the target levels to be achieved—based on each institution’s development goals and curricular framework—were identified. Next, the end-of-term examinations of these schools were observed and reported. A total of 31 volunteer students participated in the exam observations, and their examination programs were evaluated and analyzed in line with the curricula.Finally, based on the curricula reviewed and the qualitative data obtained from the exam observations, recommendations were proposed on how to close the identified proficiency gaps. It is anticipated that these recommendations will enhance the quality of higher-education piano instruction and promote its standardization.