Eminent and promising jazz musicians : a comparison
Date
2003
Authors
Wilson, Julia Alexandra
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Abstract
The purpose of this multiple case study was to explore and compare the development of eminent and promising male and female jazz musicians. Given definitions of "eminent" and "promising", an expert panel nominated potential Canadian participants. Of the musicians nominated, twelve musicians agreed to participate: three eminent male jazz musicians, three eminent female jazz musicians, three promising male jazz musicians, and three promising female jazz musicians. Data collection included a personal interview and a biographical inventory. The interviews were transcribed and then the results coded and analyzed using cross comparisons. Several common patterns were found. These eminent and promising jazz musicians had similar personal characteristics, two of which are creativity and good social skills. In addition, both men and women had high ability, demonstrated task-commitment, worked hard, and typically displayed an intensity or passion for jazz. Their musical development was marked by positive influences from community, family, peers, and teachers. One common obstacle to achievement for the eminent and promising men and women in this study was the lack of financial resources. Some differences were noted. The six eminent men and women appeared to be more resilient and described themselves as having stronger leadership skills than the promising men and women. In addition, the eminent musicians had moved beyond their local or regional jazz community to become part of an international jazz community. Some gender differences were noted in obstacles to achievement.