According to a new study of over 36,000 people across the world, they type of music you listen to and your personality is closely linked. (weren’t we are aware of that anyway?)

The research was carried out by Professor Adrian North of Heriot Watt University, is the largest study of its type.

His research concluded that classical music fans were shy, while heavy metal fans were gentle and at ease with themselves.

Prof. North said the research was “significant” and “surprising”.He said: “We have always suspected a link between music taste and personality. This is the first time that we’ve been able to look at it in real detail. No-one has ever done this on this scale before.”

The Professor believes his research could have many uses in marketing toward music fans, adding: “If you know a person’s music preference you can tell what kind of person they are, who to sell to.

“There are obvious implications for the music industry who are are worried about declining CD sales.

“One of the most surprising things is the similarities between fans of classical music and heavy metal. They’re both creative and at ease but not outgoing.

“The general public has held a stereotype of heavy metal fans being suicidally depressed and of being a danger to themselves and society in general. But they are quite delicate things.”

The study asked the 36,000+ people to rate 104 styles of music and asked questions about their personality. The study continues, and Prof. North is looking for people to take part in his online questionnaire.