Performing in concert and in rehearsal - a comparison using audio, video and movement data

Abstract

As a musician it is clear that a concert performance involves a specific engagement. Both the physical attitude and the musical expression change through the interaction with the public. However, the mechanisms involved in this interaction are not well documented. To study the influence of the public on performance, a concert with a singer and a viola da gamba player was recorded using audio, video and acceleration sensors (invisibly) attached to wrists and back of the performers. These data were compared to the general rehearsal, recorded in identical settings. This enables a scientifically valid comparison, without challenging the ecological validity. General rehearsal and concert performance are relatively similar, which shows that performers are able to reproduce their interpretation. Still, the comparison reveals some interesting differences. Analysis of the tempo shows that the pieces in a slower, rather free tempo are performed slower in concert, while the faster, more dance-like tempi are performed slightly faster. The gesture analysis shows a tendency for the singer to use more open, communicative postures during the concert. The movement analysis shows an overall increase in intensity for the singer while the player roughly follows the pattern of the timing. In summary we could say that the different analyses show an intensification of the performance while interacting with the public.