Practicing Musical Intention: The Effects of External Focus of Attention on Musicians’ Skill Acquisition

Movement science research indicates that an external focus of attention benefits learning as well performing movement. Despite these findings from the field sports, on effects in music pedagogy is sparse, especially naturalistic settings. This in-depth, small-sample study investigated effect musical terms accuracy, self-efficacy, confidence, motivation, and engagement, qualitative performance experience. Seven conservatoire (natural trumpet) students practiced challenging, unfamiliar pieces short practice sessions using their normal methods, followed by a trial instructions Audiation Practice Tool (APT). tool was developed to enhance auditory kinaesthetic engagement detailed intention through vivid imagination, singing, gesturing, playing, seeking variation. Use APT resulted higher accuracy than participants’ usual non-significant trend for improvement self-efficacy confidence compared usual. Logbook scores were inconclusive motivation engagement; however, exit questionnaire answers showed most participants experienced audiation or engaging enjoyable. Although none initially favored focus, generally intended continue elements APT. suggests use could be more explicit prominent teaching practicing music.