Exploring the Pedagogical Potential of Earplug in Flute Training: A Qualitative Analysis

Abstract

This qualitative research was conducted with the aim of revealing the usability of earplugs in relation to flute performance techniques. The participants of the sudy,  who were selected using purposive sampling method, were composed of ten voluntary students enrolled in a state university offering professional flute training. Data were collected through in-depth face-to-face interviews. The interviews were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using descriptive analysis. In the data analsis stage, the researchers generated and interpreted codes, categories, and themes, as well. The study was structured around three sub-problems. In the dimension of posture and hand position issues such as slam-and-squeeze and key noise emerged. Secondly, regarding breathing techniques, themes included breath control, intonation, and silent inhalation. Finally, themes such as tongue control and synchronization were identified in the dimension of articulation techniques. The results have revealed that earplugs can be utilized as effective pedagogical tools in flute teaching even if performers’ efficiency may vary due to their demographic characteristics or some essential personalized approaches.