Creativity Within and Beyond Musical Giftedness: Proposing a MwSIC Model of Creativity

This study explores the evolving definitions of creativity within the context of musical giftedness and development, using a collaborative autoethnographic approach to analyze the life experiences of two musicians. Drawing from Sternberg’s WICS model, we propose a MwSIC Model of Creativity that places an individual’s life story at the center, surrounded by the interrelated elements of Intelligence , Creativity , and Wisdom for talent development. Our findings challenge traditional educational practices in music learning, which often emphasize product-oriented outcomes and rigid definitions of success. Instead, we advocate for a process-oriented approach that values the ongoing journey of creative development. We suggest a shift toward valuing ambiguity and the creative process which can cultivate more adaptable, innovative, and reflective musicians. This research contributes to the broader discourse on creativity as a development over time, offering insights that can enhance the development of musically gifted individuals.