Investigation of instrumental compatibility level of fine arts high school violin and viola students

This research aims to reveal the instrumental compatibility levels of students who choose the violin and viola instruments for their education in fine arts high schools, which are institutions providing vocational music education in our country. Investigating the instrument compatibility status of students continuing their main instrument lessons with violin and viola, by examining various variables, identifying possible problems, and presenting solutions in this context, the research is significant. In this study, the "Instrumental Compatibility Scale" was developed and applied to students attending fine arts high schools in various regions of our country. In this respect, the research exhibits a quantitative research characteristic. Additionally, a semi-structured interview form was created for teachers providing instrumental education in fine arts high schools, and data were collected. Thus, the study also possesses a qualitative research aspect. A literature review was conducted, and previous studies in the field were examined to gather comprehensive data by utilizing both quantitative and qualitative data. Hence, it is a study formed using a mixed-method approach. As a result of the research, it was determined that the instrument selection process in vocational music education is crucial, comprehensive guidance should be provided to students regarding instrument selection, the role of instrument selection committees in fine arts high schools should be enhanced, more comprehensive instrument introductions should be made starting from primary education, and the methods, pieces, and studies selected to increase student-instrument compatibility in violin and viola instruments need to be reviewed.