Download generation 'apathetic'

We have become more passive about music, says the study

The downloading of music has led to a generation of people who do not seriously appreciate songs or performances, according to research.

Easily accessed tunes mean many music lovers are no longer excited at discovering and playing unfamiliar work, said the University of Leicester.

Psychologists monitored 346 people during two weeks to evaluate how they related to music.

They found music had "lost its aura" and was seen as a commodity.

"The accessibility of music has meant that it is taken for granted and does not require a deep emotional commitment once associated with music appreciation," said Dr Adrian North, who led the study.

The findings could explain the popularity of TV talent shows such as X-Factor and Fame Academy, which give viewers a rare chance to engage and appreciate music and live performance that is missing for today's "iPod generation", he said.

In the 19th Century, music was seen as a highly valued treasure with fundamental and near-mystical powers of human communication Dr Adrian North

Dr North added that in stark contrast to previous generations, mass media had meant music has become much more accessible.

With the advent of the internet and MP3 players, which play downloaded material, music has become a soundtrack to everyday life, rather than something life-changing and special, continued Dr North.

"The degree of accessibility and choice has arguably led to a rather passive attitude towards music heard in everyday life," he added.