Creativity is commonly defined as the ability to generate ideas or solutions that are both original and useful and is often divided into divergent and convergent thinking. Divergent thinking refers to the generation of multiple novel ideas, whereas convergent thinking involves more focused and analytical processing aimed at narrowing down possible solutions. Previous research suggests that musical experience is positively associated with divergent thinking, while evidence for a relationship with convergent thinking remains limited. The present study examined whether individuals who actively engage in music making differ from non-music makers in both types of creative thinking. It was hypothesized that music makers would show higher divergent thinking performance, but not higher convergent thinking performance. Participants completed the Alternative Uses Task (AUT) and the Remote Associates Test (RAT) to assess divergent and convergent thinking, respectively. Contrary to the hypothesis, no significant differences were found between music makers and non-music makers on either task. However, within the group of music makers, years of musical experience was positively associated with convergent thinking performance, while no consistent associations were found for divergent thinking. The absence of significant effects may be explained by methodological factors. AUT scores showed limited variability, likely due to the averaging of novelty and usefulness ratings and the aggregation of responses across items. In addition, subjective scoring and moderate interrater reliability may have reduced measurement sensitivity.

In conclusion, the findings do not support a relationship between musical experience and divergent thinking. Instead, they highlight the importance of how creativity is operationalized and measured.