Why Has Musical Aptitude Assessment Fallen Flat? And What Can We Do About It?

Abstract

Tests of musical aptitudes are reviewed. Despite decades of research and at least modest evidence for the validity of such tests (particularly regarding their ability to assess a mechanical-acoustic factor), the objective assessment of musical aptitudes is not part of the standard career assessment battery. Reasons for this situation are suggested. A renewed effort to develop musical aptitude tests is recommended, particularly along the lines already established through the research programs of Karma (1994), Dowling and Harwood (1986), and Vispoel (1992).

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