The talent development of a musically gifted adolescent in Singapore

Abstract

Using Gagné’s Differentiated Model of Giftedness and Talent (DMGT) as a conceptual model, this study investigated the factors that influenced the talent development process of a musically gifted adolescent in Singapore. Five macro themes emerged as key catalysts that impacted the adolescent’s talent growth: (1) natural abilities; (2) early musical experiences; (3) empowerment and motivation for success; (4) support from significant others; and (5) cultural knowledge and values. This article elucidates that musicians have access to a wealth of cultural knowledge and values that are potentially valuable to improving young musicians’ participation with and motivation in developing their musical potential. The richness of one’s cultural origins and backgrounds, which is rarely brought to the fore, are important as it affects the way a musically gifted child is ‘nurtured and socialized’. It is suggested that music educators re-examine home—school relationships to foster links between their teaching strategies and students’ lives, for a rewarding musical development process.