The process of nonverbal communication between choir and conductor
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.7203/LEEME.36.9873Keywords:
Choral Conducting, Non-Verbal Communication, Music Education.
Abstract
Some elements of nonverbal communication between conductor and choir singers might affect the sound and the response of the choir before and during a performance. This study is about these elements surrounding the performance. It was carried out an experiment with an amateur choir (N=25; 15 women and 10 men). The choir (Luleå Kammarkör) is considered an outstanding choir with strict requirements for admission within a mid-high class societal level. The same musical piece was conducted in two different ways, one inexpressive and the second one in an expressive manner. After the performance, the singers answered an anonymous survey. The experiment was recorded with two video cameras in order to study the role of the conductor and to observe the choir. After the analysis of the data included in the videotape and the responses of the questionnaire, it can be concluded that the conductor’s gesture, facial expression and body language are important before and during a performance. Through gesture and these elements conductor shows musical intentions in a nonverbal language. This way to perform music is more useful for singers because they receive more information from the conductor and their response is different. These differences are appreciated in sound, intonation and attention of the choir. The results have a wide range of application, from music classrooms to professional choirs.
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