Research Catalogue

an international database for artistic research

• 3. Internal publication Research published in this issue are only for internal circulation within the Royal Conservatoire, The Hague.
• 2. Royal Conservatoire Investigations Royal Conservatoire Investigations
• 1. Master Research Projects All research in KC

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  Illuminating Sound (2025) author(s): Teng Katherine published in: KC Research Portal
  This research investigates the active role of light as a core compositional element in contemporary music performance by exploring the integration of light, sound, and movement in real-time environments. Traditionally, light has been treated as a secondary aspect of performance, primarily serving as a means of illumination or visual enhancement. However, this study examines how light can function beyond this conventional role, actively shaping musical structure and influencing perception. Through the analysis of live performances and hands-on experimentation with analogue oscillators, photoresistors, and DMX systems, this research explores how these elements function as both medium and material within a piece. My compositions, alongside works by composers such as Viola Yip and Hugo Morales Murguía, serve as case studies, illustrating light’s transformation in performance from a passive visual aid to a structural force. These works highlight how light, when treated as a compositional element, reconfigures performer agency and audience perception. By challenging conventional notions of light in music, this research contributes to ongoing discussions on multimedia composition and performance aesthetics. It proposes an alternative perspective in which light is not merely an accessory to sound but an integral component of musical structure, expanding the possibilities for interdisciplinary performance practice.
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  Interpretative Approach of ‘’Dialogue de l'ombre double‘’ by Pierre Boulez (2025) author(s): Juan Luna published in: KC Research Portal
  This research explores an interpretative approach to Dialogue de l’ombre double by Pierre Boulez, a key work in the contemporary clarinet repertoire. Motivated by my decision to perform this piece in my final master’s recital, the study goes beyond its technical demands to examine its historical context, Boulez’s compositional style, and the interaction between live clarinet and electronics. The research is structured around four objectives: contextualizing Boulez’s contributions to contemporary music, analyzing the structure of Dialogue de l’ombre double, developing an interpretative framework, and offering technical solutions. Following the introduction, Chapter 1 explores Boulez’s impact on contemporary music, particularly his use of electronics and spatialization. Chapter 2 provides a structural and musical analysis of the work, examining how its elements create a cohesive sonic narrative. Chapter 3 presents interpretative and technical strategies for engaging with the electronic part, focusing on phrasing, articulation, and dynamics. Chapter 4 offers practical solutions for technical challenges, including alternative fingerings and exercises for complex passages. Based on bibliographic research, recordings, discussions with clarinet professors, and personal experimentation, this study highlights how a deeper engagement with the score and Boulez’s stylistic intentions can lead to a more informed and compelling performance.
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  The Warm-Up Menu for Musicians: Strategies and a toolbox for achieving a healthy body-mind state for practicing and performing. (2025) author(s): Cristina Quesada Henares published in: KC Research Portal
  Warm-up routines are essential for preventing injuries and enhancing performance, not only for athletes but also for musicians. While technical exercises like scales are common, physical and mental preparation is often overlooked. Research shows that musicians experience a high incidence of injuries, yet many neglect a comprehensive warm-up that includes both physical and mental aspects. This study explores the importance of incorporating a warm-up routine that goes beyond the instrument itself. It introduces a "warm-up menu" that allows musicians to select exercises based on available time, integrating disciplines and techniques such as Yoga, Body Mapping, Flow, and Imagery, while also highlighting the significance of Core engagement for musicians. These practices enhance body awareness, reduce tension, and promote overall well-being, ultimately helping to prevent injuries. The research combines a literature review, expert interviews, and a case study in which three musicians experimented with different warm-up routines over a week, reflecting on their experiences and the impact on their performance and physical condition. Findings suggest that incorporating non-instrumental warm-ups, especially those influenced by Yoga, can reduce tension, improve posture, and enhance performance while lowering injury risks. Experts, including musicians, psychologists, and physiotherapists, confirmed these benefits but emphasized that warm-ups should be part of a broader injury prevention approach. This study provides initial insights into the benefits of holistic warm-ups and encourages further research. By understanding and implementing better warm-up strategies, musicians can cultivate a more sustainable and healthy career.
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  Op de Haubois of Basson meesterlyk spelen: Contextualising The Roles and Repertoire of Double-Reed Instruments in the Republiek der Zeven Verenigde Nederlanden, 1677–1725 (2025) author(s): Luis Tasso Athayde Santos published in: KC Research Portal
  This study seeks to illuminate a body of forgotten repertoire, documented in the Dutch Republic's courts, theatres, military, amateur circles, and churches. Comprising of a dissertation and two appendices, this study explores how double-reed instruments were used in the Dutch Republic in the years 1677–1725, focusing on seven types and sizes of instruments made by Richard Haka (<1646–1705). This critical period in double-reed history marks Europe's transition from the direct descendants of Renaissance-type instruments to the French-style instruments of the high Baroque period. The Dutch Republic, being the origin of one quarter of all pre-Classical oboes and the earliest-surviving datable bassoon, was one of the first places to adopt these French instruments outside of France — though the older forms of double-reed instruments continued to be used throughout the period of study. One could question the need for having so many of these instruments in a region which is largely unexplored in terms of historical performance practice and repertoire. Double-reed players of the Republic served in a variety of capacities and could be found playing several genres of music, but due to the historically-inconsistent use of terminology, determining the exact introduction and extinction of these instruments is nearly impossible; however, by contextualising an array of seemingly-unconnected primary sources and analysing details in the iconography of the period, a more-informed perspective on the matter can be gained.
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  Accordons-nous ! Let's tune in! (2025) author(s): Blanche Proust de La Gironiere Limited publication. Only visible to members of the portal : KC Research Portal
  Let's Tune in ! - Accordons-Nous ! This research explores the development of a holistic and personalized warm-up routine designed to help musicians reach an optimal state for efficient practice and performance. By integrating the body, mind, and emotions, the aim of a good warmup is to improve musical engagement and connection, while reducing the risk of injury and burnout. To create these tailored warm-up routines, interviews were conducted with health and well-being experts specializing in both physical and mental health. Additionally, a two-round warm-up trial was carried out with seven volunteer students. The results indicate that dedicating daily time to connect with one’s body, mind, and emotions significantly enhances practice quality, musical connection, and self-awareness. Moreover, it contributes to injury prevention and empowers students to develop a deeper understanding and awareness of their physical, emotional and mental state. Given the high incidence of injuries and burnout among young professional musicians, it is crucial to develop and share practical solutions that promote long-term well-being. By introducing these habits from an early stage in music education, we could create a foundation for healthier, more effective, and more fulfilling musical growth.
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• The art of attention (2025) author(s): Oihane Angulo Limited publication. Only visible to members of the portal : KC Research Portal
  As a passionate group educator, I encountered some challenges in maintaining a high attention span during my group cello lessons in the past. This research delves into specific musical didactics that improved the sustained attention during my group cello lessons for children aged from 8 to 11. This paper is divided into four phases. The first phase involves gathering all the necessary data regarding attention in group lessons. The second one consists in collecting different effective strategies inspired by observing various group teachers and interviewing them. The third phase focuses on developing and testing my own strategies in my cello group lessons. Finally, a comprehensive reflection of both the observations and my interventions is presented in this work. This research contains a collection of different and detailed musical didactics that fostered a more focused, fun and productive learning environment in group instrumental lessons.
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