Abstract
The purpose of this study was to create and pilot a measure of expressive performance by small instrumental ensembles. An exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was used to examine the latent variables that contribute to the perception of expression in performance. Based on a review of the literature and performance assessment measures, the measured variables that contribute to the perception of expression in instrumental performance were associated with (a) style, (b) period-specific performance practices, (c) variations in timing, (d) variations in dynamics, and (e) performer use of movement, posture, and facial expressions. The variables were organized into three expected latent variables of expression: (a) musical interpretation—style, period-specific performance practices, (b) phrasing—timing and dynamics, and (c) visual performance—performer movement, posture, and facial expressions. The findings of the EFA indicated a 2-factor solution, “Phrasing” and “Visual Performance,” and the retention of 30 expressive statements. These statements could be used to clarify music educators’ expectations for expressive performance by instrumental musicians. After the created measure was pilot-tested, the hypothetical structure was examined using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). The inter-judge reliability of the measure was assessed using Cronbach’s alpha, ANOVA, and the Split-Halves test. The criterion validity was determined by bivariate regression.