Eminence Choices in Three Musical Genres and Music Media Preferences

Abstract

Subjects in college classes (N = 413) were asked to list five compositions that should “live forever” in three categories: pop/rock, orchestral, and choral/operatic. The students also provided information regarding musical training listening habits, and ownership of audio equipment. Fewer than 50% of the subjects listed five compositions in any one category. Subjects with approximately 10 years of music training completed more entries in the orchestral and choral/operatic categories than did those with fewer years of study. Those who had 3 or more years of music study were better able to complete the music survey than were other subjects. Approximately equal numbers of subjects preferred to listen to music on tapes, radios, and compact disc (CD) formats. Generally, younger subjects listened to more music per day than did older subjects, and subjects who preferred to listen to music on CD players listened to music more hours per day than did subjects choosing other devices.

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