The relation of hand preference and 2D:4D finger ratio with instrument (baglama) performance

Performance is expressed as the state of processing, fullfilling and achieving a task. Performance is the prior condition in instrument training. For a decent intrument performance; particularly the physical and physiological features of an individual are the substantial factors affecting the performance; along with the factors as musical talent, practicing, social environment, economical condition, education, passion and motivation. In this study, investigating the instrument (bağlama) performance relation of 2D:4D finger ratio and hand preference is aimed. A total of 107 students, 83 males and 24 females, aged between 15 and 18 participated in the study. "Edinburgh Inventory (Oldfield) Hand Preference Questionnaire" was used to determine hand preference and the results were evaluated according to the Geschwind score. "Bağlama Performance Measurement Tool" was applied to determine the bağlama performance. For the 2D:4D finger ratios, the finger lengths of both hands were measured with a digital calliper, taking the anatomical limits into account, and the 2D:4D ratios were calculated. The data obtained from the research were analyzed using the IBM SPSS 26 Version program. It was determined that the instrument performances of the participants did not differ according to the hand preference and 2D:4D finger ratio variables, however there was a natural correlation between the participants' right hand 2D:4D finger ratios and left hand 2D:4D finger ratios. It was determined that there was no relation between the participants' hand preferences and 2D:4D finger ratios; and that hand preference and 2D:4D finger ratios did not differ according to the gender variable and between schools; but there were significant differences in instrument performances of schools. In addition, it was determined that there was a statistically significant relation between the instrument backgrounds of the participants and their instrument performances. Keywords: Instrument Performance, Baglama, Lateralization, Hand Preference, 2D:4D Finger Ratio