Aspects of dance training can be helpful in improving performance skills on the piano. These include correct posture, breathing, and a physical sense of self. Learning to move to music, whether through formal training or on one's own, can help relaxation, concentration, and endurance. (CS)

Reports on a study designed to investigate loudness judgments of 30 musician and 30 nonmusician listeners in response to performed dynamic changes within a musical context. Finds that musician subjects indicated a significantly smaller magnitude of dynamic change than did nonmusician subjects. (CFR)

Investigates how different practice techniques (physical, mental, and alternating physical/mental) and aural knowledge of results improve the piano performance of 40 graduate and undergraduate music students. Reveals all three practice modes, especially physical practice, improved performance, whereas aural knowledge of results had little effect.…

Analyzes independent videotape observation, investigating whether beginning student conductors could demonstrate high and low gestural intensity. Reports that 320 subjects had a 77 percent correct response rate to conductor gestures. Suggests intensity is recognizable across multiple illustrations and diverse music experience levels. (CH)