Getting the audience involved: An exploration of performer relationships with the audience in live blues performances
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Authors
Moore D.C., Victoria
Issue Date
2011
Type
Thesis
Language
en
Keywords
Alternative Title
Abstract
Sport psychology is applied with performing artists, yet there is a lack of research on performer audience behavior in the performing arts. The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore the dynamic of performer interactions with the audience in live blues shows, and how it is perceived to affect the energy of the group. Participants were 13 professional musicians who self-identified as being influenced by the blues in their musical style. Individual semi-structured interviews were conducted, some in person and some over the phone, regarding topics such as their experience performing for live audiences, things they say or do to elicit audience response, and how the group energy develops during the performance. Interviews were audio recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed through content analysis. Results showed that performers had positive intentions for the effect of their performance on the audience, they were aware of group energy dynamics both within the group of performers (the band), and with the total group including both the band and the audience members, and that they were consciously aiming for an elevation of the group energy dynamic through the performance experience. Practical implications of this study include applying this information to the healing effects of balancing the social brain, the effects in performing arts and expressive athletics of relating to the audience in a benevolent way instead of expecting judgment, and tapping into the power of the group energy to empower optimal performance when playing or performing in front of an audience.