Flow Experience and Self-Regulation in Music Performers after a procedure of emotion induction”

Two hundred musicians were administered after a public exhibition a mood induction procedure, the Flow State Scale and a Self-regulation Scale, collecting also information on the use of mental strategies to withstand negative emotions. Results have shown that flow experience varied depending on the type of instrument used and self-regulatory characteristics of the subjects involved. Self-regulation and flow are strongly correlated among pianists and vocal performers. The emotional induction affects the self-evaluative judgments on own performance. Past experience in practice of music, while results in better performance levels, does not constitute an advantage in emotional management. The use of mental strategies is associated with the formulation of more realistic judgments, with a better protection and management of interfering emotions.