This type of analysis could be carried much farther, but these items may suffice as fair samples to show that the artistic temperament in music is an essential gift demanded by the nature of the art. It may be good or bad, inborn or cultivated, genuine or simulated, and often runs into eccentricities so that we frequently view it in a superior attitude of amusement. But let us thank all the gods in the Kingdom of the Muses for their great gift, the potentially good musical temperament. THOUGHT REVIEW General Principles (1) The musical temperament may be good or bad. (2) It is inherent in the intensive music situation. (3) The musical temperament generally has a hereditary basis in a highly-strung nervous disposition. (4) It has large common elements with the artistic temperament of the painter and the poet, but is more eruptive. (5) It is often of strategic advantage in musical performance. (6) In many respects it is a defense reaction. (7) It may be either extrovert or introvert. (8) It is most fascinating when artistic and serenely serious; most ludicrous when affected; and most abominable when it takes the form of tantrums and exhibitionism. Consider These Questions (1) Can you name ten musicians who exhibit a "charming" musical temperament? (2) Can you name ten musicians who exhibit a "noxious" musical temperament? (3) Can you recall ten practical jokes which exemplify temperamental behavior, good or bad? (4) What are some of the first evidences of temperamental behavior in the musically precocious child? (5) Should the musical temperament in a child be cultivated? (6) Why is the current music supervisor rarely temperamental? (7) Was long hair a temperamental trait? (8) Is temperamental behavior proportionate to excellence in music? Discuss This Situation When the director of the professional symphony orchestra faces a group of temperamentally hardened performers in rehearsal it is war to the finish--victory or defeat. Recall some characteristic historical instances of artistic strategy in such a situation. Chapter VI MUSICAL INHERITANCE