What is talent?
The Merriam Webster dictionary defines talent as “a special ability that allows someone to do something well.” But is it something we are born with or is it something learned?
We’ve all heard of kids who seem to have a natural affinity for music or singing. They seem to be ingrained with the ability to do something well, probably from birth. But that doesn’t mean there isn’t something to be said about honest hard work and practice.
In fact, we believe that while some talent is given, that talent can be learned.
There is a difference between talent and ability. Ability is being able to do something. We all have the ability to play music, create music or sing. The difference between being good at it and not is taking the time to practice and perfect that ability.
There have been many studies done on talent and whether or not we are born with it or if it is something that can develop. Here are some major takeaways.
Even if we are born with some ability, some teaching is required to develop that skill:
"Musical development continues beyond the age of 7 or so only in an environment that provides some sort of tutelage." ("Sternberg" "Intelligence, Heredity and Environment" )
Absolute ("perfect") pitch is not a genetic accident or random occurrence, but is developed in young childhood under specific external conditions (Absolute pitch)
Even further than that, advanced musical skill takes training and practice:
"Talent proves of no avail in the absence of thousands of hours of practice distributed over a decade or more, as the youngster gains facility in various first- and second-order musical symbol systems. ("Sternberg" "Intelligence, Heredity and Environment")
"Deliberate practice" is qualitatively different from ordinary experience. In ordinary experience, an individual is exposed to certain task demands, spends time attaining proficiency at that task and then plateaus, more or less satisfied with his/her level of competence. Under these passive circumstances, more time spent with the same task after the plateau will not significantly increase skill-level. The skill level becomes autonomous and stable. In contrast, under a regime of deliberate practice, the individual is never quite satisfied and is always pushing a little bit beyond his/her capability, actively and incrementally expanding that capability. (Cambridge handbook of expertise and expert)
Having natural talent is one thing, but to really be good at something, you must practice and learn from the best. Here at Individual Style Institute of North America (ISINA), teaching talented individuals how to use their skill is what we do.
Are you interested in really taking your talent to the next level? Submit your application to ISINA for a chance to win an all-expense paid scholarship to study with some of the biggest names in the music business.
