Musical savants : exceptional skill in the mentally retarded / Leon K. Miller.

Author/creator Miller, Leon K., 1941-
Format Book
Publication InfoHillsdale, N.J. : Lawrence Erlbaum Associates, 1989.
Descriptionvii, 266 pages : illustrations ; 24 cm
Subjects

Contents Introduction -- Musical savants of the past -- Evaluating savant skill -- Absolute pitch -- Short-term memory -- Musical idioms -- Correlates and consequences of savant skill -- On the nature and origin of musical savants -- Epilogue -- Appendix A. A music teacher's perspective on savant skill ; Appendix B. Record of participation ; Appendix C. Note duration values and rhythms task.
Abstract Using the case study of "Eddie" as his framework, the author challenges the prevailing notion that musical savants are essentially phenomenal tape recorders and deals with the issue of "idiot savants" in a detailed, empirical investigation. Through "Eddie" the author discusses, in specific and in general, topics including the background and historical context of musical savants; other cases; data regarding the nature of the skills exhibited and the associated developmental deficits; and descriptions of a series of experiments used to define Eddie's talent. Finally, the author considers more general issues raised by savant behavior, particularly functions served by savant behavior, theories regarding its etiology, and its role in general development.
Bibliography noteIncludes bibliographies and indexes.
LCCN 88038597
ISBN0805800344

Availability

Library Location Call Number Status Item Actions
Music Music Stacks ML3838 .M64 1989 ✔ Available Place Hold