‘People have talents’: a case study of musical behaviour in an adoptive family

Abstract

This article uses case-study research to examine approaches to adoptive parenting, with particular reference to children's musical instrument learning. Drawing on video and interview evidence, we consider the effects that family narratives about adoption, genetic inheritance and environment have upon different family members' perceptions of themselves and of each other. We conclude that the supportive parenting style demonstrated in our case-study family provides an environment in which musical learning can flourish, and we draw parallels with research in the psychology of music, to illustrate the importance of family support for young musicians.