Unit 12.1

Question 1

Talent (5)

Answer 1

1. talent originates in genetically transmitted structures, is partly innate
2. its full effects may not be evident at an early stage (some advanced indication)
3. early indications of talent provide a basis for predicting who is likely to excel
4. only a minority are talented
5. talents are relatively domain specific

Question 2

Deliberate practice

Answer 2

highly structured practice with the explicit goal of improving performance (involves tasks designed to address weakness/correct errors

Question 3

5 parts of deliberate practice

Answer 3

1. identifying concrete goals
2. targeting errors
3. slowing down fast passages
4. vocalizing complex rhythms
5. memorizing passages where you struggle

Question 4

What makes good practice? (6)

Answer 4

1. deliberate practice vs. mere repetition
2. mental engagement is key
3. monitoring and correcting mistakes
4. danger of practicing the wrong way
5. intrinsic motivation
6. self-regulation

Question 5

Nature vs. Nurture
- Ericsson et al 1993 review

Answer 5

• examined how deliberate practice leads to acquisition of expertise in wide range of fields
• found little evidence for genetic factors which reliably predicted superior performance
• concluded performance quality relates to amount of deliberate practice

Question 6

10 year rule

Answer 6

10 years of practice to be an expert at something
- math, science, poetry, interpreting x-rays

Question 7

Role of genetics

Answer 7

• interaction of genetics and environment
• individual variables affecting temperament and level of persistence
• may cause some to practice longer and more effectively
• openness to experience best predictor of levels of practice

Question 8

Role of genetics - twin study

Answer 8

common sets of genes may influence both musical discrimination abilities and propensity towards practicing

Question 9

Other things that play a role beyond deliberate practice (5)

Answer 9

• genetics
• starting age of training
• intelligence
• personality
  Meta analyese found deliberate practice only accounts for 30% of individual difference
• leaves 70% to other variables

Question 10

Critique of deliberate practice

Answer 10

• why do some ppl reach higher levels of achievement with same amount of intensive training?
  1. differences in innate capacities
• ie. greater working memory, faster sensorimotor speed

Question 11

Genetics and Practice

Answer 11

Meta analysis
- 38% of variance in music practice itself is genetically determined
- willingness to practice/how you spend practice time affected by genetics

Question 12

Informal practice

Answer 12

• time not spent on assigned exercises and pieces but on ‘playing for fun’
• main goal = enjoy the activity
• develops expressivity
• benefits of playing by ear and improvising