Self-efficacy in Music

A Study of Task-specific Self-beliefs

Self-efficacy is the self-belief in one's ability to carry out an action successfully. It is task-specific and plays an integral role in musician’s lives, influencing decisions made both in the practice room and on stage. Recent research has explored the importance of self-efficacy beliefs in music, although each study has taken an individual approach to measuring the construct.

This project has developed specific tools for exploring self-efficacy in music, examining it within the separate contexts of learning and performing. Questionnaires measuring Self-efficacy for Musical Learning and Self-efficacy for Musical Performing have been developed, tested, and validated (see Ritchie & Williamon, in press). The relationship between the different types of self-efficacy has been explored in relation to musical skills and attributes, as well as in relation to practical outcomes. Specifically, links have been drawn between self-efficacy for musical learning and self-regulated learning strategies, and self-efficacy for performing has been shown to link directly to the assessed results of musical performances.

Current research is investigating self-efficacy across different musical genres and with different age groups, for both individuals and groups of musicians.

For further information, including details of published reports, navigate via the right-hand menu or email Laura Ritchie (l.ritchie@chi.ac.uk).