A synthesis process model of creative thinking in music composition

Abstract

A three-year single case study of a composer was undertaken in order to track the compositional process in real time. A combination of data collection techniques was used to attempt to map cognitive processes: digital MIDI save-as files, analogue audio files, semi-structured interviews, immediately retrospective verbal accounts and verification sessions between composer and researcher. Findings indicated a chunking of processes and strategies at micro and macro levels. A hypothetical model is presented which points to a generative process of problem proliferation and successive solution implementation, occurring not only in a linear manner but also recursively. Moments of creative insight were observed which related to Gestalt theory problem restructuring; some were seen to overlap in real time with others, indicating an element of parallelism in creative thinking. A synthesis of differing creative process theories is suggested to explain the compositional process observed in the study.