Discusses research literature dealing with measurement of solo instrumental music performance. Compares the Watkins-Farnum Performance Scale with facet-factorial and other rating scales. Covers acoustic analysis and evaluation of tone, loudness, and pitch. Includes discussion of computer-assisted acoustic analysis and instrumental evaluation.…

Reports on a study of the use of musical scores and rating scales by 80 pianists who listened to 21 trials of solo piano music. Found that the use of musical scores and rating scales did not improve interrater reliability. Discovered that the subjects were less consistent when evaluating slow musical pieces than faster pieces. (CFR)

Discusses the subjectivity, reliability, and musical validity of both holistic and segmented assessment of musical performance. Summarizes an experiment investigating the extent to which holistic assessment can be accounted for by means of a segmented grading system. Concludes that, although a single grade provides limited information about…

This curriculum guide outlines a secondary music program for Alberta, Canada, that aims: (1) to develop skills in listening, performing, and using notation; (2) to encourage students to strive for musical excellence; (3) to enable students to appreciate music; (4) to foster self-expression and creativity; and (5) to make students aware of the…

Discusses a study of the ability of 11 variables to predict performance, achievement, teacher evaluation, and retention of fifth grade beginning instrumentalists. Reports that scholastic ability and academic achievement tests were leading predictors of performance achievement. Concludes that socioeconomic status and self-concept played prominent…