Authors of previous research have reported that U.S. English language learner (ELL) students participate in school-sponsored music ensembles (band, orchestra, and choir) at a lower rate than their native-English-speaking peers (non-ELLs). The current study examined this phenomenon using a nationally representative sample of U.S. 10th graders (14-…

In this study, the authors examined whether a conductor's use of high-expressivity or low-expressivity techniques affected evaluations of ensemble performances that were identical across conducting conditions. Two conductors each conducted two 1-minute parallel excerpts from Percy Grainger's "Walking Tune." Each directed one excerpt using high-…

The authors replicate and extend findings from previous studies of music enculturation by comparing music memory performance of children to that of adults when listening to culturally familiar and unfamiliar music. Forty-three children and 50 adults, all born and raised in the United States, completed a music memory test comprising unfamiliar…

In this study, the effectiveness of recorded models in the context of ensemble rehearsals was examined. Over a 5-week treatment period, directors of three middle/junior high and two high school bands systematically included professional recordings as part of their preparation of selected pieces. Students completed weekly self-evaluation reports…

States that in two experiments, instrumental students with 1 to 7 or more years of performance experience matched selected target pitches within a melodic context. Determined whether melodic pitch accuracy was affected by location or duration of target pitch. Subjects erred most often in the sharp direction. Includes references. (CMK)

Compares preference response to selected musical examples across groups of listeners from three nationalities, and investigates how similarities and differences in preference responses may be reflected in listeners' written comments. Reports on overall ratings, ratings of particular musical styles, and types of comments made in written responses.…

Examines the role of same- and other-group identification and cultural cues in musical preference decision-making of African-American and white music students. Indicates that white students preferred examples by white performers; African-Americans preferred examples of music by white performers but preferred examples by African-American performers…