title: Dichotomy and perceptual distortions in absolute pitch ability.
abstract: Absolute pitch (AP) is the rare ability to identify the pitch of a tone without the aid of a reference tone. Understanding both the nature and genesis of AP can provide insights into neuroplasticity in the auditory system. We explored factors that may influence the accuracy of pitch perception in AP subjects both during the development of the trait and in later age. We used a Web-based survey and a pitch-labeling test to collect perceptual data from 2,213 individuals, 981 (44%) of whom proved to have extraordinary pitch-naming ability. The bimodal distribution in pitch-naming ability signifies AP as a distinct perceptual trait, with possible implications for its genetic basis. The wealth of these data has allowed us to uncover unsuspected note-naming irregularities suggestive of a "perceptual magnet" centered at the note "A." In addition, we document a gradual decline in pitch-naming accuracy with age, characterized by a perceptual shift in the "sharp" direction. These findings speak both to the process of acquisition of AP and to its stability.
authors.affiliation: Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143-0794, USA.
authors.forename: E Alexandra
authors.initials: EA
authors.lastname: Athos
authors.forename: Barbara
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Levinson
authors.forename: Amy
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Kistler
authors.forename: Jason
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Zemansky
authors.forename: Alan
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Bostrom
authors.forename: Nelson
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Freimer
authors.forename: Jane
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Gitschier
mesh_terms: D000161:Acoustic Stimulation; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000367:Age Factors; D000465:Algorithms; D002648:Child; D005260:Female; D006320:Hearing Tests; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009146:Music; D010897:Pitch Discrimination / Q000502:physiology*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires