Compares preferential ratings of art music among 100 music majors and 100 nonmusic majors. Finds that music majors' preference ratings were significantly higher than those of the nonmajors. Also finds that Likert-scale ratings of nonmajors using the Continuous Response Digital Interface were higher than those using a static measure. (CFR)

Reports on a study of music listening preferences among undergraduate college music majors, high school musicians in performance groups, and sixth-grade students in eight U.S. sites. Finds instrumental biases among high school and college musicians' preferences for relatively unfamiliar classical music. (CFR)

Contends that music educators must develop a stronger rationale for music education in the face of economic pressures and questions about the value of aesthetic education. Argues that music educators must stress both the utilitarian and aesthetic objectives of music. Includes six basic rationale statements for music education. (CFR)

Examines techniques made possible through computer technology that researchers are using to increase understanding of musical response. Describes the Continuous Response Digital Interface (CRDI), created at Florida State University's Center for Music Research, that stores responses during music presentation. Outlines several applications of CRDI…