Expert opinions on the use of alternative fingering positions in beginner vocational flute training

Abstract

This study, which aims to reveal expert opinions on the use of alternative finger positions in beginner level vocational flute education, was conducted as a basic qualitative research study with a qualitative paradigm. The study group of the research was determined as the maximum sampling model. In this direction, first of all, official institutions providing vocational flute education in Turkey were determined, and eight expert trainers from five different vocational flute education institutions in Turkey formed the working group. A semi-structured interview form consisting of three main and 13 probe questions was used to collect data in the study. These interviews, all of which were conducted face-to-face and recorded, were first transcribed and subjected to descriptive analysis. The data obtained in the study were arranged by the researcher, and the comments obtained by associating them with the themes were included in the findings section. In addition, a code was given to each participant so that the data could be analyzed and participant views could be addressed within the framework of ethical rules. In terms of ensuring participant confidentiality, during the interview, the participants are called Expert 1, Expert 2, etc. Some participant opinions were presented by direct quotation in the findings and discussion and conclusion section. As a result of the research, it was found that alternative finger positions (APP) were used in the dimensions of intonation, finger technique and different tone colors. The themes and codes that make up these categories are included in the findings section, and in the conclusion part of the study, they are discussed and summarized and suggestions are given.