Article offers new knowledge or offers new insight on the topic. Articles that rely heavily on secondary sources are seldom judged to offer new knowledge. For example, extensive citations from New Grove articles are usually rejected. A compilation of widely scattered secondary sources, however, might effectively demonstrate a new hypothesis. Article will challenge readers' thinking.
Material is timely.
Anniversaries of composers or events offer timely opportunities for articles. Premise is well-defined, supported, and developed. The purpose of the article should be clear. The author should supply convincing evidence to support the thesis, developing the premise so that a reader unfamiliar with the topic will understand the article's arguments. Scope is appropriate neither too narrow or too broad.