This study examines the alignment of melodic and rhythmic expressions used in identifying musical talent in Turkish music with contemporary music theory pedagogy, emphasising inclusivity, developmental appropriateness, and cultural diversity. Traditional assessments have predominantly focused on technical skills like pitch and rhythm production, rooted in early psychological theories that prioritise cognitive competence. In contrast, current pedagogical approaches advocate for a holistic framework, suggesting that rhythmic and melodic determinants should encompass diverse musical traditions and acknowledge students' varied cultural backgrounds. Aligning talent identification methods with modern pedagogical principles is critical for cultivating a more inclusive generation of musicians. Data were collected from 120 melodic and rhythmic phrases provided by music educators of all levels at a regional seminar. These phrases were analysed for compliance with modern educational principles, considering criteria such as representation of various musical traditions, suitability for different developmental stages, and alignment with inclusive educational practices. Findings revealed that the musical materials used are predominantly based on Western music, with limited representation of Turkey's diverse musical traditions like makam music and folk melodies, and insufficient complexity to engage more advanced students. This indicates a need for more inclusive and differentiated assessment strategies that better reflect different musical contexts and developmental stages. The study underscores the necessity of developing comprehensive evaluation frameworks that integrate a broader spectrum of musical traditions to promote an inclusive and effective music talent identification system in Turkey. Future research should focus on developing specific strategies that enhance the inclusivity and pedagogical value of musical talent assessments and promote the widespread adoption of appropriate identification systems. Addressing these needs could enable the education system to better recognise and nurture the diverse musical talents within the student population, leading to a richer and more culturally diverse musical environment.

Musical Talent Assessment, Contemporary Music Theory Pedagogy, Turkish Music Education, Contemporary Music Education