The purpose of this study is to evaluate the meaning of the participation of parents
and music teachers in the musical playing of students with visual impairments and
multiple disabilities. This study can provide fundamental information for the music
education of these types of students.
Four students with visual impairments and multiple disabilities who had received
education in music playing for more than four years were chosen to participate. Three
in-depth interviews were conducted with each mother and teacher of the students. The
constant comparison method was used to analyze the interview data, and four thematic
categories were derived.
Several conclusions can be drawn from the findings:
First, students with visual impairments and multiple disabilities chances to meet
other people through musical playing. In addition, they have opportunities to learn
various application abilities in new playing situations.
Second, starting to play music presents the challenges of a new activity. Finding a
gift for music can be a starting point for playing.
Third, these students frequently distinguish themselves in music through their
persistent experience of playing, which was not expected. They can win prizes by competing with normal students in musical competitions. And the experience of musical
playing can expand the lives of these students and offer various challenges. Therefore,
the experience of musical playing should be vitalized.
Fourth, these students may have trouble taking on challenges relating to the
playing of music, due to the lack of a support system. Teachers cannot support them
properly because of a lack of advisors and educational materials. Systematic educational
support for learning to play should be provided for these students.