Instrumental Minds

The purpose of this study was to use the Psycho-Geometrics™ tool to measure the personality and behavior traits of instrumentalists in the traditional concert band setting in an effort to create a behavior profile for players of each instrument. The specific research questions for this study are as follows: (1) What trait statements within the categories of personality, behaviors, and relating to others are unique to instrumentalists overall? (2) What trait statements within the categories of personality, behavior, and relating to others are unique to each instrument in the concert band? (3) What trait statements within the categories of personality, behavior, and relating to others are unique to first chair players? (4) What trait statements within the categories of personality, behavior, and relating to others are unique to eighth grade, high school, and college students? The participants (N = 260) for this study were wind and percussion instrumentalists from various states across the southern United States. Ages of the participants ranged from eighth grade through graduate level study. Results found that overall the sample saw themselves as dependable, hard workers, and loyal friends. Results from the individual instruments revealed personality and behavioral differences amongst each instrument type. Results from the grade levels revealed differences that were consistent with developmental traits that were appropriate for each age group. The knowledge of the personalities and behaviors of students within an ensemble could help foster stronger student/teacher relationships which, in turn, could lead to stronger acquisition of subject matter, more meaningful musical performances, and create lasting memories for students to carry with them beyond their formal education. A more detailed listing of results is located within the paper.