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Research and development of a music-movement syllabus for gymnasts and gymnastic coaches

Author

Pauline McMillan Upjohn, University of the Pacific

Date of Award

1980

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (M.A.)

Department

Graduate Studies

First Advisor

Doris C. Meyer

First Committee Member

Karen Friend Bradley

Second Committee Member

William Dehning

Third Committee Member

Lawrence McQuerrey

Abstract

Personal participation in floor exercise choreography and performance, observation of performances by other gymnasts, and conversations 'With other; coaches, and gymnasts· have intensified the author's awareness of a widespread lack of knowledge and understanding about the interpretation and use of music in floor exercise. When choreographing optional floor exercise routines, coaches and gymnasts have difficulty selecting appropriate music, interpreting the music, and choreographing routines to complement the music. Even after routines are finally developed, many of them lack style, originality, amplitude, flow, precision of rhythm and execution, and expressiveness. Many of these qualities are also lacking in the performance of compulsory routines, partially because gymnasts are not able to accurately and aesthetically interpret the music.

Concern for this problem stimulated the author to investigate available literature on floor exercise. The literature indicated the importance of the proper use of music as well as skill in tumbling, dance, and acrobatic movements; however, it did not emphasize that gymnasts be trained in the fundamentals of music, which may enable them to accurately and aesthetically interpret music for their routines.

After further investigation of the literature in the areas of floor exercise, physical education, dance education, music education, and rhythm education, it was concluded that the development of a music-movement Syllabus with supportive audio-visual aids, for training gymnasts and gymnastic coaches, could be of value in improving floor exercise training programs.

Pages

270

Recommended Citation

Upjohn, Pauline McMillan. (1980). Research and development of a music-movement syllabus for gymnasts and gymnastic coaches. University of the Pacific, Thesis. https://scholarlycommons.pacific.edu/uop_etds/2037