Abstract :
The aim of this research was to investigate the value and purpose ofMaster Classes, from the
perspective of Conservatoire students. Thirty-seven UK Conservatoire students responded to
a questionnaire, providing information about their prior experiences of Master Classes, the
factors that they considered to be important in a successful Master Class and any possible
barriers to learning in Master Classes. The students considered Master Classes to offer
valuable performance opportunities, fresh ideas for approaching musical interpretation and
technique and access to a professional community of practice. Performance anxiety was
noted as a barrier to learning for those who performed inMaster Classes and students raised
several issues relating to the problematic notion of ‘participation’ as an audience member.
Whilst the sample was clearly limited, these findings contribute to an understanding of
how students might best be facilitated in capitalising on the opportunity to learn in Master
Class contexts
