The Relationship between Music Learning Motivations, Intentions to Pursue a Career in Music, and Career Choices of College Music Majors in Korea

Abstract

The present study aimed to investigate the relationship between music learning motivations, intentions to pursue a career in music, and career choices among college music majors in Korea. Results from a survey of 152 music majors from two universities in Seoul showed that their music learning motivation was primarily autonomous and not controlled. High intentions to pursue a career in music were expressed, with the most preferred career being that of a college lecturer/studio instructor, followed by a performer, and the least preferred being that of a music teacher. The only motivation that had a positive impact on pursuing a career in music and choosing a performer or college lecturer/studio instructor as a future career was identified motivation. However, introjected motivation had a negative impact. Intrinsic and external motivations had no effect on music career intentions or choices. The findings demonstrate that each orientation of music learning motivation has a unique effect on the intentions to pursue a career in music and career choices. The results also highlight the need for further investigation into why music learning motivation has no relation to music college students' career choice as a music teacher.