The Preliminary Validity Study for the Development of the Goldsmiths Musical Sophistication Index in Korean (Gold-MSI-K)

This study aims to develop the Korean version of the Goldsmiths Musical Sophistication Index (Gold- MSI-K) by translating the Gold-MSI into Korean, creating a final questionnaire, and conducting a preliminary validity test. The Gold-MSI is a self-assessment tool that measures various aspects of musical sophistication, encompassing a wide range of musical experiences while allowing for efficient evaluation in a short time. The questionnaire consists of 38 items rated on a 7-point Likert scale and includes five sub-scales (Active Engagement, Perceptual Abilities, Musical Training, Singing Abilities, and Emotions) along with a General Musical Sophistication factor. To develop the Gold-MSI-K, the English items were translated into Korean and back-translated, followed by content validity verification by experts in music and the Korean language. Face validity was then assessed through a pilot study with the general population. The final instrument was tested with 100 adults, and its reliability (Cronbach’s α≥0.7) and confirmatory factor analysis (TLI=0.834, CFI=0.853, RMSEA=0.084) confirmed its adequacy. The Gold-MSI-K is expected to contribute to the enhancement of students' musicality and the improvement of educational practices in Korean music education settings.