A longitudinal study of intonation in an a cappella singing quintet

Objective The skill to control pitch accurately is an important feature of performance in singing ensembles as it boosts musical excellence. Previous studies analyzing single performance sessions provide inconclusive and contrasting results on whether singers in ensembles tend to use a tuning system which deviates from equal temperament for their intonation. The present study observes the evolution of intonation in a newly formed student singing quintet during their first term of study. Methods/Design A semiprofessional singing quintet was recorded using head-worn microphones and electrolaryngograph electrodes to allow fundamental frequency (fo) evaluation of the individual voices. In addition, a camcorder was used to record verbal interactions between singers. The ensemble rehearsed a homophonic piece arranged for the study during five rehearsal sessions over four months. Singers practiced the piece for 10 minutes in each rehearsal, and performed three repetitions of the same pieces pre-rehearsal and post-rehearsal. Audio and electrolaryngograph data of the repeated performances, and video recordings of the rehearsals were analyzed. Aspects of intonation were then measured by extracting the fo values from the electrolaryngograph and acoustic signal, and compared within rehearsals (pre and post) and between rehearsals (rehearsals 1 to 5), and across repetitions (take 1 to 3). Time-stamped transcriptions of rehearsal discussions were used to identify verbal interactions related to tuning, the tuning strategies adopted, and their location (bar or chord) within the piece. Results/Discussion Tuning of each singer was closer to equal temperament than just intonation, but the size of major thirds was slightly closer to just intonation, and minor thirds closer to equal temperament. These findings were consistent within and between rehearsals, and across repetitions. Tuning was highlighted as an important feature of rehearsal during the study term, and a range of strategies were adopted to solve tuning related issues. This study provides a novel holistic assessment of tuning strategies within a singing ensemble, furthering understanding of performance practices as well as revealing the complex approach needed for future research in this area. These findings are particularly important for directors and singers to tailor rehearsal strategies that address tuning in singing ensembles, showing that approaches need to be context driven rather than based on theoretical ideal

Patterns of verbal interaction in newly formed music ensembles

Ensemble rehearsal in the European classical music tradition has a relatively homogenised format in which play-through, discussion, and practice of excerpts are employed to establish and agree on performance parameters of notated music. This research analyses patterns in such verbal communication during rehearsals and their development over time. Analysing two newly established ensembles that work over several months to a performance, it investigates the interaction dynamics of two closely collaborating groups and adaptation depending on task demands, familiarity with each other and an upcoming deadline. A case study approach with two groups of five singers allowed in-depth exploration of individual behaviours and contributions; results are reported descriptively and supported by qualitative data. The results highlight changes over time that reflect the development of implicit (faster decisions) interactions from explicit (slower decisions). They show a trajectory of opening up and closing down in terms of interactional flexibility, enabling members to significantly contribute to the group, followed by tightening the interaction to establish stability for performance. These findings and novel employment of T-pattern analysis contribute to the understanding of human group behaviour and interaction patterns leading to expert team performance

Group music participation by adults in middle and older age : wellbeing and impact of social isolation during COVID-19

Changing demographics mean that many people in middle and older age pursue leisure activities, including active participation in music. This research explored affordances of group music participation, the impact of disruption of in person activities on wellbeing due to COVID-19 social distancing restrictions and variations in these with age. An online survey and focus groups were conducted with amateur musicians in the UK. Adults over the age of 45 were targeted in the survey. All were active in community group music making, with a mean length of experience of ensemble playing of 30 years. They rated the impact of group membership and of social distancing on social, physical and emotional wellbeing, and described their experiences of using remote methods to meet or rehearse. Older (66+) people reported more benefits from music participation on physical health and musical engagement. Respondents aged 65 or under, and members of self-organised groups were impacted more by being unable to meet, and were more likely to keep in touch by other means. Over 50% of the respondents participated in remote rehearsals or meetings which provided opportunities for social contact, learning, or planning. This study revealed differences in the experiences of people of different age cohorts, and in different music group contexts. These findings have implications for the role of group music in healthy ageing, highlighting music participation benefits in transitioning to later life stages