From Spectators to Co-Creators: How Active Participation Transforms Music Appreciation

Gunda Leine

About this exposition

This research explores the impact of audience participation on the appreciation and engagement of musical performances, with a focus on classical vocal music. Inspired by personal experiences of feeling more emotionally connected during interactive concerts, the study investigates methods to facilitate audience involvement. Drawing on existing literature and data, including Toelle and Sloboda’s claim that participatory practices can enhance accessibility and funding, the study underscores the role of interaction in reshaping perceptions of classical music. The research also engages with Christopher Small’s concept that music’s essence lies in participatory social actions and highlights Mats Johanson’s findings on the value of improvisation for performers and audiences alike. By addressing the research on participation in classical music, this study aims to identify effective methods of audience involvement. Additionally, the study examines data that has been personally gathered through creating concerts, surveying and analysing the response of the audience. The study investigates methods to facilitate audience participation and examines the audience engagement, emotional connection, performer’s role in setting the mood and mirroring, and the repertoire choice. The findings will provide actionable insights for musicians seeking to deepen connections with their audiences, bringing fresh energy to both their performances and the broader concert-going culture.

type	research exposition
keywords	Audience participation, Music in Public Space, Interactive, Music Perception, Engagement, Music Appreciation, interactive, engagement, expression, emotions
date	17/03/2025
published	14/07/2025
last modified	14/07/2025
status	limited publication
copyright	Gunda Leine
license	CC BY-SA
language	English
url	https://www.researchcatalogue.net/view/3518369/3518567
published in	KC Research Portal
portal issue	3. Internal publication

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From Spectators to Co-Creators: How Active Participation Transforms Music Appreciation (2025)