ABSTRACT
This chapter uses the lens of goal orientated approaches to musical development to examine conservatoire students' perceptions of their plans, attitudes, aspirations and potential barriers to achieving success. A range of characteristics contribute to the development of a music student's sense of professional self-concept, including those of self-perception, self-interpretation and self-evaluation. Critical incidents appear to influence music students' career aspirations. Conservatoires prepare students for alternatives to a career in music performance by encouraging them to work in a range of musical genres, take up teaching opportunities and develop business and transferable skills. A developing sense of self-concept as a potential professional musician was evident among the advanced music students. The questionnaire also invited students to respond to a range of statements that described possible barriers to achieving their musical aspirations. According to Bussey and Bandura, perceived self-efficacy provides a means for enhancing the personal source of control for the individual's development.
