This study explored the impact of adaptive methods and modalities in Art Song performance in connecting with adult audiences (aged 18 and older) as explored through a live performance of German Lieder. In addition, this study sought to contribute a qualitative experimental study of in-situ audience perception to an emerging field of practice and research regarding the innovative practices in Art Song performance (e.g. Art Song Theatre). The study was derived from a 2012 informal experiment by Professor Rena Sharon, a leading advocate of expanded Art Song performance practice and pedagogy. Specifically, a single English Art Song was performed in three different treatments: traditional, expanded traditional, and theatrical contextualization. The data helped illustrate a difference in performer interpretation and audience comprehension, confirming a stronger affiliation to the more expansive treatments over the more normative one.
Inspired by the anecdotal report of this experiment, the current study compared three gestural versions of Art Song performance, similar to the previously mentioned, on a larger scale (i.e. a German song cycle) and recorded the data through more extensive and systematic data collection before three distinct audiences, categorized according to level of prior classical music training and/or familiarity with Art Song. The conclusions observed provide further context on the effectiveness of innovative performance practices within classical music, such as Art Song Theatre, as well as suggest a set of parameters when putting forth a classical music performance – specifically that of Art Song/German Lied – for present-day audiences
