Temporal Precision in Motor Rhythm

The object of this research in motor rhythm is two-fold; (1) the analysis and comparison of factors involved in rhythmic perception and action by means of a battery of 12 psychophysical tests, whose results are treated statistically and individually, and (2) the development amd standardization of a new test for temporal accuracy in motor rhythm, which may be used in conjunction with present measures of musical talent. A graphic record of an observer\u27s tapping in time with a recurrent rhythm pattern is obtained by means of a phonograph chronograph, and is then measured for regularity. In contrast to numerous very low correlations between most of the tests of the battery are the consistent correlations of from.25 to.60 between perception of rhythm, time pitch, and tonal memory and rhythmic action and motor tests. It is concluded that rhythmic action is a complex but unitary capacity having as its principal common factor with these other tests the ability to take and retain a motor set, as a basis for comparison or regulation of perception and action. Ability in motor rhythm is distributed over a considerable range and may be rated in percentile ranking