Children's Singing Accuracy as a Function of Grade Level, Gender, and Individual versus Unison Singing

Abstract

First through fifth graders' vocal pitch accuracy was examined as a Junction of grade level, gender, and the presence or absence of a unison accompanying voice. Subjects (N = 169) were tested individually, and taped responses were analyzed with Visi-Pitch technology. The vocal model was a tape-recorded child's voice singing a four-beat melodic pattern on the neutral syllable “loo.” For individual singing subjects echoed the model; for unison singing, subjects echoed the pattern simultaneously with the model. Statistical analysis revealed no significant difference between individual and unison accuracy. Fourth graders were significantly more accurate than third graders in both individual and unison conditions. Gender differences were not significant.