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Learning and teaching breathing and oboe playing: action research in a conservatoire

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  01 July 2007

Helena Gaunt
Helena Gaunt*
Affiliation:
Guildhall School of Music and Drama, Barbican, Silk Street, London EC2Y 8DTHelena.Gaunt@gsmd.ac.uk
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Abstract

This paper presents findings from action research in a conservatoire (the Guildhall School of Music & Drama) which focused on teaching and learning effective breathing in playing the oboe. A range of approaches and techniques emerged from a literature review. These were implemented in practice with oboe students at the Guildhall School, and changes in their practice and perceptions of breathing were analysed. Participants' responses to the approaches used were diverse, emphasising individual learning styles. Considerable changes in their breathing practice as oboists were observed, and in addition it was noted that in several cases their approach to learning became more reflective and self-directed.

Type
Research Article
Information
British Journal of Music Education , Volume 24 , Issue 2 , July 2007 , pp. 207 - 231
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 2007

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