The Influence of Beginning Instructional Grade on String Student Enrollment, Retention, and Music Performance

The purpose of this study was to investigate three primary variables concerning the starting grade level of beginning string instruction in public schools: (a) initial enrollment, (b) retention data for both the end of the first year and at the seventh-grade year of instruction, and (c) music performance level in the seventh grade. Secondary variables including schedule of instruction, decision makers, grade-level organization, and private lessons also were examined. Research objectives were developed to provide string teachers with information for use when they consider the grade level of beginning instruction in their school districts. Later starting grades yielded the highest retention rates, when retention data for both the end of the initial year of instruction and the beginning of seventh grade were compared with starting grade level. The starting grade level of instruction did not, however, affect initial enrollment figures or music performance of string ensembles.