Relationships between music performance anxiety and impostor phenomenon responses of graduate music performance students

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore potential relationships between music performance anxiety (MPA) and feelings associated with the impostor phenomenon (IP). Participants completed an online questionnaire comprising demographic questions and two instruments: the Kenny Music Performance Anxiety Inventory (KMPAI) and an adapted version of the Clance Impostor Phenomenon Scale (CIPS-P). Although MPA has been found to affect performers of many ages and levels, IP is associated with individuals who are considered successful. Thus, we chose graduate students pursuing music performance degrees at colleges and universities in the United States and Canada to serve as the participants-individuals who have attained success in music performance. Findings from the 171 participants reveal a strong positive correlation between higher levels of MPA and higher frequency of impostor feelings. Responses indicated that over 75% of participants experienced clinically high levels of MPA and frequent to intense impostor feelings. When asked to comment on their experiences related to the pandemic, some of the performers discussed finding little fulfillment performing without an audience present, others described virtual performances as being less stressful than live, and there was concern that the long period without in-person performances may result in a set-back in dealing with performance anxiety.