• Journal of Music and Human Behavior
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• v.10 no.2
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• pp.79-97
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• 2013

The purpose of this study was to obtain the normative data of finger strength using the keyboard and the MIDI(Musical Instrument Digital Interface) software. A total of 92 college students (46 male and 46 female) were recruited from universities located in Seoul and Chungcheong province and an average age was 21.7(SD = 1.8). After the completion of demographic information, each participant asked to press the five keys both in ascending and descending manners with the maximum strength of individual finger. The velocity was obtained as an indicator for finger pressing force by using the MIDI software. Results showed that the individual finger velocity ranged between 77 to 97 (Maximum possible velocity = 127). Regarding male's velocity data, the maximum velocity was found in index finger of dominant hand(96.9), while the minimum strength was found in ring finger of nondominant hand(78.5). Female data appeared to be similar to male's one in terms of maximum strength in dominant index finger(92) and minimum strength in nondominant ring finger(77.5). It also found that the statistically significant differences(p < .05) on finger strength of all fingers between dominant and non-dominant hands except the thumbs(p < .05). The current findings serves as a "normative standard" that proves the validity and effectiveness of hand rehabilitation training program using the electronic keyboard connected with the MIDI software to enhance functional changes in hands.