A1 Journal article (refereed)
Expression of emotion through musical parameters in 3- and 5-year-olds (2019)
Saarikallio, S., Tervaniemi, M., Yrtti, A., & Huotilainen, M. (2019). Expression of emotion through musical parameters in 3- and 5-year-olds. Music Education Research, 21(5), 596-605. https://doi.org/10.1080/14613808.2019.1670150
JYU authors or editors
Publication details
All authors or editors: Saarikallio, Suvi; Tervaniemi, Mari; Yrtti, Antti; Huotilainen, Minna
Journal or series: Music Education Research
ISSN: 1461-3808
eISSN: 1469-9893
Publication year: 2019
Volume: 21
Issue number: 5
Pages range: 596-605
Publisher: Taylor & Francis
Publication country: United Kingdom
Publication language: English
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/14613808.2019.1670150
Publication open access: Not open
Publication channel open access:
Abstract
While the use of musical parameters for emotional expression has been extensively studied, little is known about which specific musical parameters children at different ages are able to use for expressing specific emotions. We used a novel interface called Music Box that allows modification of musical parameters while music is being played in real time. Children (N = 37, 18 girls) at the age of 3 and 5 were asked to modify three parameters – tempo, loudness, and pitch – in expressing three emotions – happiness, sadness, and anger. We hypothesised that both 5-year-olds and 3-year-olds could use each of the parameters in differentiating between the emotions. Results showed that 3-year-olds were equally competent than 5-year-olds in using the parameters. Differences based on gender and music background were additionally measured. The study provides knowledge on normative development of children’s ability for musical expression of emotion, which can be used to inform music education and music therapy practices.
Keywords: emotions; expression (communication); children (age groups); music; parameters; tempo; sound intensity; musical scales
Free keywords: emotional expression; children; basic emotions; musical parameters
Contributing organizations
Ministry reporting: Yes
Reporting Year: 2019
JUFO rating: 3
