A Phenomenological Inquiry on Counseling Experiences of Clients with A Classical Piano Major

This study aimed to explore counseling experiences of clients with a classical piano major. Seven participants who graduated from College of Music with a piano major, currently engaged in piano jobs, and experienced more than 5 sessions of counseling were recruited. Semi-structured interviews were conducted and analyzed using Giorgi's phenomenological inquiry. As a result, the participants experienced difficulties in self-disclosure in the early stages, but grew a sense of stability through unconditional positive regards and active listening from counselors. In the middle stage of counseling, they began to disclose themselves, be able to control their emotions, and experience a moment of self-understanding. In the late stages of counseling, they were able to accept themselves and others, and broaden their horizons. Based on these findings, implications for counseling with people with music majors and related counselor education were discussed.