Music Self-Efficacy of Amateur Musicians Predicted by Online Music Tutorials Use, Learning Habits and Self-Esteem

The purpose of this study was to examine the connection between music self-efficacy and learning and playing habits of amateur musicians, especially preferences for online music tutorials. Two hundred
twenty-two amateur musicians completed the research questionnaires, including distinction between
two types of online music tutorials: autonomy (foster independent learners, incorporating context, and
background) vs. dependent (offering mainly imitation options and providing little further knowledge).
Hypotheses are supported by the results, showing a prediction of high music self-efficacy through the
use of autonomy online music tutorials, co-playing, studying with a teacher, and self-esteem as well as a
prediction of low music self-efficacy through the use of dependent online music tutorials. Considering
that music self-efficacy is an essential part of an effective learning process, we argue that an optimal use
of online music tutorials could be presented and suggested to music students by formal music educators,
who, by doing so, may foster autonomous learners. Further research is required for establishing causality
between amateur musicians’ personal characteristics, their learning and playing habits and their music
self-efficacy. Moreover, the subject should be further addressed post COVID-19 social effects on online
learning habits and co-playing communities.