Measurement and Classification of the Affective Value of Drum Rhythm Patterns

We have measured the affective value of 14 different varieties of drum-rhythm patterns by applying the affective value scale of music (AVSM). The results that we obtained, from a single-factor analysis of variance, a multivariate analysis of variance, and a correlation analysis, suggest that the number of snare-drum beats (high pitch) and bass-drum beats (low pitch) in one measure influences the affective value in respect of elation, lightness, and solemnity. An increased number of snare-drum beats in one measure leads to an increase in the affective value of elation (described as cheerful and bright), as well as the affective value of lightness (described as light and restless). In addition, the results revealed that an increased number of bass-drum beats in one measure leads to an increase in the affective value of solemnity (described as solemn and dignified).