ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book discusses how fragility in developing the musician coexists with resilience and tenacity. It presents attitudes to teaching and learning from a variety of perspectives. The book explores modes of assessment in developing the musician. It provides an account of a research project derived from the success of Musical Futures as instrumental teachers began to question whether or not the pedagogical strategies on which Musical Futures was founded could be tailored for their lessons. Developing the professional musician involves an awareness of one's personal attributes and teamwork skills as they are played out in working with others. The Ear Playing Project (EPP) confirms the importance for teachers to take a flexible approach to their professional development and to reassess the rationale behind their own preferred ways of teaching.
