The Musical Temperament: Psychology and Personality of Musicians / Edition 1

by Anthony E. Kemp

Overview

It is generally accepted that exceptionally skilled people in society, such as airline pilots and brain surgeons, have significantly different personalities from those of the general population. Similarly, a kind of folklore has long existed within musical circles that there are fundamental personality differences between the players of different instruments. Dr. Kemp examines this fascinating issue, as well as several others in light of his ten years of research in the field. After an introductory chapter summarizing relevant personality theories, the book covers different facets of musicians' personalities—introversion, independence, sensitivity, and anxiety, among others. Different forms of musicianship—orchestral players, singers, conductors, et al.—are also considered to clarify the ways in which specific skills impact personality development or predispose a person towards different instruments and styles of performance. Kemp's research is relevant not just to psychologists, but also to professional musicians and composers, and music educators.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780198523628
Publisher:	Oxford University Press
Publication date:	07/11/1996
Edition description:	New Edition
Pages:	296
Product dimensions:	9.19(w) x 6.19(h) x 0.66(d)
Lexile:	1500L (what's this?)

About the Author

University of Reading

Table of Contents

Introduction: Personality assessment1. Musicianship from a different perspective2. Introversion3. Independence4. Anxiety5. Gender role adaptability6. Music preferences and listening styles7. Orchestral performers9. Musicians in popular fields and conductors10. Composers11. Music teachers12. Development of musical talent

Editorial Reviews

"Overall, this reviewer finds little to criticize in Kemp's book, and much to praise."—Notes

From the Publisher