Abstract
A semantic differential inventory consisting of 40 baroque-performance descriptors was used by 44 participants in response to 5 interpretations of two pieces by J.S. Bach. The aim of the study was to gain insight into the aesthetic dimensions which underlie baroque performances. Factor analysis identified two dimensions, one pertaining to the stylishness of the performance. Stylishness described those performance devices that contribute to the success of the performance. The second dimension indicated either an amount of expression (regardless of appropriateness or success), or a mainstream perception of expressiveness, not necessarily appropriate to baroque music. A third, weaker, dimension also emerged which grouped together tempo-related variables. The three factors were compared with Osgood's dimensions of connotative meaning, and aligned reasonably well with the evaluative, potency and activity dimensions respectively.
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