Gestures and glances - the effects of familiarity and expertise on singers’ and pianists’ bodily movements in ensemble rehearsals

2009

The types, functions, sources and effects of musicians’ bodily movements have been studied in soloists’ live and recorded performances, to a lesser extent in their practice sessions and rehearsals, and in ensemble musicians’ rehearsals. The present study explored the effects of familiarity and expertise on singers’ and pianists’ bodily movements and eye contact in ensemble rehearsals. Two established singer-pianist duos rehearsed three songs in different combinations. Quantitative and qualitative analyses were undertaken. Bodily movement and eye contact were used to consolidate technical details, convey musical information and coordinate entries. Singers used gestures to reflect and support…