Mentorship: The Meaning of the Relationship for Musicians

This article describes the importance of mentor relationships in the training of musicians. Using in-depth interviews with professional musicians, the study describes the construction and meaning of mentorships in the training of musicians and shows mentorship to be meaningful for both the mentor and the protégé. It identifies key functions relating to both the psychosocial and career development of the protégé. Results highlight the need for music teachers and music administrators to be more aware of the developmental importance of the mentor relationships in their teaching.