ABSTRACT
This chapter provides the natural conclusion to the argument for a revised understanding of the musician identity and the role of the instrumental teacher. Various career models emphasise the role of individual agency in the context of careers as self-employed freelance professionals. Traditions surrounding the way in which musicians are trained in the UK, including practices relating to progression and performance and the master–apprentice model of tuition, remain largely unchallenged. The portfolio career model involving multiple concurrent professional roles is problematic for universities and conservatoires seeking to measure the employment destinations of graduates. The romantic image of the western classical professional performer who engages only in performance and who does not work more broadly within music is reinforced by UK conservatoire mission statements that speak of training aspiring performers. The role of the instrumental teacher as professional musician has significant potential in creating new and relevant expectations of professional life for working musicians.
