The psychology of music in Poland: Theoretical considerations and current directions in empirical research

Abstract

The psychology of music has a long tradition and continues to develop both in Poland and abroad. The current issue of Roczniki Psychologiczne [Annals of Psychology] is devoted to topics related to the scientific study of music, addressed by Polish scholars from different research units. In the current introductory article we aim to describe the context in which the psychological study of music develops. Assuming that the psychology of music is a science dealing relationships between music and human listeners, performers, or composers, we explain the meaning of that notion, presenting the characteristics of such relations. We also describe the beginnings and development of the psychology of music in Poland and abroad, introducing the main goals of this multidisciplinary and integrative science. Finally, we present the contents of the current issue of Roczniki Psychologiczne [Annals of Psychology].