The repertoire as a motivating factor in basic piano study

The main objective of this study was to introduce works by Portuguese composers into the repertoire of 3rd and 4th grade piano students in specialized music education with a view to these works becoming a relevant motivating factor for students. Based on an analysis of the programs currently in force in Portugal and drawing on the author's experience in the context of piano teaching in Italy the incidence of the repertoire of national authors in that country was analyzed concluding that these options are more consistent in Italy than in Portugal. Thus works by Portuguese composers Luiz Costa João Domingos Bomtempo and Francisco de Lacerda were introduced to one group of students as they were considered to fulfill objectives identical to those indicated in the foreign repertoire while the other group was given works by non-Portuguese composers. The data obtained through this study indicate very positive and encouraging results both in terms of student behavior and the perception of the audience at the final recital.