Abstract:

The transition from teaching practicum to the teaching profession represents a crucial phase in the development of professional identity, particularly for those preparing to become instrumental music teachers. In this process, the Tutor Coordinator plays a strategic role in mediation, guidance, and reflective support. Recent contributions on teacher professionalism highlight the importance of supervision practices that integrate guided observation, shared reflection, and situated learning (Rizzo, 2022), while also emphasizing the need for pedagogical strategies specific to music education (Freschi, 2006). At the same time, attention to relational and communicative skills, as well as to the development of transversal competencies for managing educational contexts, fits within a perspective centered on the individual and their learning needs (Oglethorpe, 2001). Reflections on cognitive processes and meaning-making through experience further underscore the value of support that fosters awareness, self-analysis, and metacognitive strategies (Cucchi, 2015).

This research stems from the author’s direct experience as Tutor Coordinator for the teaching practicum at the Conservatory of Alessandria during the 2024 and 2025 academic years, with particular attention to the initial training of future instrumental music teachers. The study is based on an interview-questionnaire administered to trainees, aimed at identifying perceived needs, expectations, and challenges during the teaching practicum. A corresponding questionnaire was also administered to teacher trainers to explore convergences and divergences regarding perceived training priorities.

The comparative analysis of the data shows that the Tutor Coordinator is recognized as a key figure in supporting professional practice, translating theoretical knowledge into practice, managing educational complexity, and fostering the progressive construction of professional identity among future instrumental music teachers.

Keywords:

Inclusion, Music Education, Teacher training.