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Abstract

The present study was an investigation of the instrument selection processes used by directors of beginning bands in a Midwestern state. What general procedures and timelines band directors used, whether gender bias was perceived to exist, and whether prior research was applicable to Midwest band programs were the major research questions. Directors of beginning bands were identified (N = 332) and sixty (n = 60) were randomly selected to complete a questionnaire. Of the random sample, 38 questionnaires were returned representing a 63% return rate. It was found that playing tests and analysis of students’ physical characteristics were the most frequently used tests and proceduresinforming the matching of students to instruments. The participants rarely used tests such as Gordon’s ITPT or MAP during the instrument selection process. A majority of directors stated that the instrument selection process was not addressed at all (21%) or briefly mentioned (58%) during undergraduate training rather than dealt with in some detail (21%). Further, directors developed their selection processes through experience and not by training received during college. A majority of directors (53%) agreed or strongly agreed that gender stereotyping exists in Midwest band programs and seventy-nine percent (79%) did take steps to address this issue.

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