Getting Into the Zone: A Pilot Study of Autonomic-Cardiac Modulation and Flow State During Piano Performance.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Music performance anxiety is a common experience among elite and professional musicians and impedes performers from achieving flow state, or a state of focused, sustained engagement that promotes optimal performance.

Objective

The aim of this study was to use heart rate variability (HRV) to determine the psychophysiological underpinnings of optimal music performance.

Methods

We assessed HRV to study how autonomic-cardiac modulation was associated with flow during piano performance. Twenty-two pianists (15-22 years) with at least a Grade 8 Royal Conservatory of Music certification prepared two standardized pieces and a self-selected piece. Performer heart rate data were measured with a Polar 800 watch in 5-min periods immediately before performances, during

SUBMITTER: Jha S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9044034 | biostudies-literature | 2022

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature