Scott's Research

Abstract: This study examined readability of the first volume of 12 common introductory band (n = 6) and string (n = 6) method books. Text pertaining to instrument assembly and care, posture, carriage, and tone production was scanned into a Word document and normalized for consistency. We then uploaded these materials into an online readability calculator for analysis. This process resulted in indices for five common readability formulas and allowed us to calculate an average grade level score for each book. Reading levels for individual texts averaged between grades four and six. As a result, some methods included in this study might not be appropriate for beginning instrumentalists in fourth or fifth grade, or for students reading below grade level. This study will provide band and orchestra teachers with valuable information on selecting a method book most appropriate for their students. Implications for educators, authors, and publishers are discussed.  

Presentations: Scott presented this study at a poster session at the 2022 National Association for Music Education national convention in Washington, D.C. and a poster session at the 2023 Illinois Music Educators Conference in Peoria, Illinois. 

Publication: This article was published in the Missouri Journal for Research in Music Education in 2023. 

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to examine the extent of composer David Maslanka’s collaboration, engagement, interactions, and connection with the Illinois State University School of Music. Research questions will examine the following: (a) What was the nature of the relationship between Maslanka and the students and faculty at ISU? (b) What outcomes resulted in the relationship between Maslanka and the ISU School of Music? To date, no study has addressed the relationship with this composer and the ISU. Ensembles at ISU continue to perform his pieces to this day, and he remains an influential figure in the School of Music. 

Dr. David Maslanka (1943-2017) was a world-renowned composer. He received his doctorate in music theory and composition from Michigan State University in 1971. He taught and lectured at four universities until 1990 when he moved to Missoula, Montana to be a full-time freelance composer. The Illinois State University School of Music Programs archive allowed for an analysis of the performances of Maslanka’s pieces by ISU ensembles and faculty. Several current and former ISU School of Music faculty members were interviewed as a part of this study. The concert programs show that over 3 decades, ISU has done over 67 performances of his works at over 50 concerts,  over a dozen visits to ISU’s campus, 10 different ISU conductors of his work, and 9 world premier performances of his work, it seems accurate to state that David Maslanka’s influence on the Illinois State University School of Music, specifically the Band Department, has been substantial. This study shows that a long-standing collaboration between an educational institution and a composer is possible and can create a lasting impact on the school or university involved.

Presentations: Scott presented this study at the Illinois Music Educator's Conference poster session in Peoria, Illinois in January 2024 as well as at Illinois State University's research symposium in April 2023. 

Publication: This study has not yet been published.