Field Dependence-Independence and the Discrimination of Musical Parts

Abstract

The association of the cognitive style known as field dependence–independence and 168 subjects' correct detection of the number of parts in 24 musical items was investigated. Each item was arranged in one of three textures. With the effects of general mental ability, experience in music, and gender held constant, scores on the Group Embedded Figures Test explained significant variance in discrimination (7.5%). Factorial analysis showed significant main effects for cognitive-style groups, number of parts, and texture. The interaction between the effects of part and texture was also significant. In some cases an individual's cognitive style may influence perception of “what's going on” in music.