Absolute pitch does not depend on early musical training.
The etiology and defining characteristics of absolute pitch (AP) have been controversial. To test the importance of musical training in the development of this skill, we developed a new paradigm for identifying AP that is independent of a subject's musical experience. We confirm the efficacy of the paradigm using classically defined AP and non-AP musicians. We then present data from a nonmusician who nevertheless appears to possess AP. We conclude that musical training is not necessary for the development of AP.
Ross
David A
DA
Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06520, USA. david.a.ross@yale.edu
Olson
Ingrid R
IR
Gore
John C
JC
D000328:Adult; D001921:Brain / Q000254:growth & development* / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D007858:Learning / Q000502:physiology; D008297:Male; D009146:Music; D010898:Pitch Perception / Q000502:physiology*