Towards a conceptual framework for understanding ensemble practices in the performing arts (01/01/2017)
Danielle Treacy; Patrick Furu
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Ensemble practices are essential to the performing and visual arts. Rich examples have been honed over centuries, yet relatively little research has explored the spectrum across disciplines. Nevertheless there are compelling reasons to do so. First, ensemble practices are increasingly important as they underpin abilities to innovate, respond to rapidly-changing professional landscapes in the arts, and explore inter- and transdisciplinary working. Second, pedagogical developments in Higher Education highlight the need for ensemble, peer and collaborative learning environments to catalyse individual development and nurture new knowledge. Third, ensemble practices have something to offer beyond the arts themselves: research has begun to unpack lessons for other professional contexts seeking to harness creativity and understand interactions within teams. This paper therefore develops a conceptual framework for understanding ensemble practices in the arts, drawing on existing literature, and proposing a series of themes expressed as dynamic continua.