Undergraduate music majors and nonmajors rated 17 musical instruments and two related musical occupations on a masculine/feminine scale. The harp, flute, and piccolo had high feminine ratings; the trumpet, string bass, and tuba had high masculine ratings. Instrument ratings were significantly different for major, but not for gender. (Author/SJL)

Provides research findings concerning the musical instrument preferences of fourth grade students. Finds that, although gender associations with certain instruments have lessened, they remain noticeably present. Identifies drums, saxophone, and flute as the most popular instruments. Notes a moderate relationship between student perceptions of peer…

Studies have shown that sexism cannot only influence career choice, but even the musical instrument that a child chooses to play. The question music educators need to consider is how attitudes and behavior surrounding this issue can be modified. (Author/SJL)

Observes that biological sex is an important determinant of whether elementary students persevere in musical instrument training and hypothesizes that psychological sex-type may also play an important role. Shows that psychological sex-type directly impacts choice of instrument type. Suggests applications to musical instrument education. (DSK)

Studies whether young children make consistent gender associations with instrumental timbres when not linked to individual instruments. Finds that the children sampled made consistent masculine/feminine associations for tones presented with some gender-based differences in particular responses. Notes possible interactions between timbre and…

Discusses a study of the musical instrument preferences of third grade children. Reports that students' choice of instruments was influenced by the manner in which the instruments were presented to them. Finds that preference varied with gender. Suggests areas for future research. (SG)

Reports on a study of student preference for musical instruments over 3 decades in 600 elementary, secondary, and colleges. Finds that gender-based segregation has increased at the high school and college level, but findings at the elementary level are inconclusive. (CFR)

Reports on a study on the selection of musical instruments by 990 band students in grades 6-9 (Dade County, Florida). Factors studied included prior instrumental music experience, family participation in the choice, and gender. Reports strong gender/instrument associations that seemed to override students' professed reasons for choosing…

This study evaluated the relationship between musical independence and: students' gender; home environment; high school and college academic and musical experiences; and college instrumental organization, major, and instrument. The study also evaluated students' opinions regarding attrition in music education and evaluated the spectrum of musical…