Ensemble Performance

Abstract This chapter addresses how ensemble musicians achieve the precision and flexibility in interpersonal coordination that enables alignment of performance parameters related to basic properties of sounds and artful stylistic expression across ensemble members. It describes auditory cues (systematic variations in timing, intensity, intonation, articulation, and timbre) and visual cues (body movements, gestures, and eye gaze) that ensemble performers employ to communicate their intentions concerning musical structure and expression. It then deals with the psychological mechanisms that allow these multimodal cues to be used in a manner that fosters ensemble cohesion. These mechanisms include rehearsal strategies for establishing shared performance goals prior to performance, as well as cognitive–motor skills that allow performers to anticipate, attend to, and adapt to each other’s actions in real time during performance. Finally, context-specific factors (e.g. familiarity with co-performer playing style) and domain-general factors (e.g. personality) that may affect ensemble strategies and skills are discussed.