Music with others : ensembles, conductors, and interpersonal coordination

Ensemble performance can be seen as a microcosm of human interactions (d’Ausilio et al., 2015). Empirical research has studied ensemble performance in relatively controlled contexts, investigating multilayered group processes as well as dyadic joint actions with real or virtual partners, and the insights these offer into nonverbal communicative behaviour. Questions tackled in relevant research include how musicians prepare for ensemble performance and how they negotiate between individual anticipation, and the monitoring of group processes in order to achieve a coherent and synchronized performance. What roles do they take in ensembles; for example, is a leader necessary? Approaching these questions, the chapter provides an overview of empirical findings on musical ensemble performance, discussing underlying psychological processes with a particular focus on adaptation, anticipation and leadership in ensembles for attaining musical coherence.