The Effect of Overtly Categorizing Music on Preference for Popular Music Styles

Abstract

This investigation was designed to examine the effect of overt listener categorization on preference for “crossover” excerpts (i.e., instrumental selections of artists nominated for Grammy awards in more than one popular style per year). Results showed no significant differences in nonmusic majors' (n = 534) preferential ratings subsequent to one of the following treatments: (a) stipulated categorization (pop, rock, jazz), (b) no overt categorization, or (c) free-operant categorization (any classification system). Subjects with musical experience responded significantly more positively than did the musically inexperienced, and females' ratings were significantly more positive than were males‘. The investigation's second component compared continuous versus static responses using a Continuous Response Digital Interface (CRDI) and Likert-type scales. Results showed that responses made across time were significantly more positive compared to static responses. Musical experience and gender significantly affected preferences for pop and jazz, but not rock.