Effects of Experience on Tempo Preference for Selected Wind Band Masterworks

We conducted two studies to complement extant tempo preference work. In Study 1, we explored preferred tempos for excerpts from selected wind band masterworks of band directors and undergraduate instrumental music majors. Participants used a sort-and-rank procedure to indicate tempo preferences of six excerpts. Preferences for four of the pieces were substantially the same: There was no difference between original tempos and the 6% increase in tempo. These results comport with research showing increased preference for faster tempos. For the other two excerpts, listeners preferred original and decreased tempos. These results parallel earlier research showing that pieces heard as already fast were preferred with slightly slower tempi. However, in one example, music majors preferred the faster tempi, demonstrating that when examples are unfamiliar, faster tempi are preferred. In Study 2, collegiate and secondary school band directors tapped preferred tempi of four works used in Study 1. Results agree with extant literature: Regression to moderate tempi was demonstrated by participants. Conductors tapped slow examples faster and fast examples slower relative to expert baselines. Tapping performance preferences were consistent with the listening preference task. Awareness of these inclinations may inform musical decisions made by students and band directors when rehearsing and conducting.