Music mime & metamorphosis: interdisciplinary intersections, interactions and influences between music, mime and corporate communication. Doctoral project 2 (of 3): Music, mime & metamorphosis
Christiaan Willems · 2008
[Abstract]: With confirmation by Kurosawa & Davidson’s (2005) research that, ‘little investigation has been undertaken to explore the nonverbal information specified in a musical performance and its functions’ (p. 112), this paper seeks to both address that lack of investigation, and simultaneously explore areas where such ‘nonverbal information’ may be highlighted, stylised and exploited, in the interests of enhancing performer/audience communication, performance confidence and stage presence in the musical context. This paper is presented in conjunction with, refers to, and supports a series of VODcasts which constitute the primary source for this analysis/discussion, and which: a) catalogue an artistic process termed by the author, ‘Blind Collaboration’, in the recording of a contemporary music album b) provide an analysis of the effects of the non-musical aspects of live musical performance in the solo acoustic performance context c) explore the application of Mime performance techniques to the music performance context with a view to enhancing stage presence, performance confidence and the performer/audience relationship. Supplementary to and supporting the VODcasts (numbered 00 to 33 inclusive, ranging in duration from approximately 0:50 – 2:00 minutes), is the inclusion of written analyses of a variety of professional Concert performances (Appendix 2), both DVD and Live, providing both broad contextual information and specific examples. This analysis also includes performances by the author (Appendix 3).