Musical Intelligence

Dr. Howard Gardner, a Harvard University education professor, developed the theory of multiple intelligences in 1983. Instead of prescribing to the traditional notion of intelligence based on I.Q. testing, he proposed the possibility of multiple intelligences. You can read about the different intelligences and find more resources about the theory here. This page focuses on musical intelligence. This information has been adapted from the book Multiple Intelligences & After-School Environments: Keeping All Children in Mind.

Musical Intelligence

the ability to relate to music through the enjoyment, creation, and performance of it. Someone with this intelligence, like Malcolm, could be called MUSIC SMART.

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A child like Malcolm who has this intelligence is likely to have these traits and interests: Frequently listens to music. Often has a television jingle or other tune running through his/her mind. Knows the tunes to many different songs or musical pieces. Has a pleasant singing voice. Can tell when a musical note is off-key. Can hear a musical selection once or twice and sing it back fairly accurately. Can easily keep time to a piece of music with a simple percussion instrument. Often makes tapping sounds or sings little melodies while working, studying, or learning something new. Plays a musical instrument. Enjoys live musical performances.

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