Ensemble Performance: Theoretical, Practical, Aesthetic Dimensions

Abstract

The purpose of the article is to reveal the characteristics of ensemble music-making through the prism of theory, practice, and aesthetics. The research methods are based on the use of a comprehensive approach, combining theoretical methods to elucidate the essence of ensemble performance, its main principles, and the possibility of extrapolating them into the practical and aesthetic sphere; synthesis method – to reveal the essence of ensemble performance in the combination of all its components. The scientific novelty of the article lies in the fact that, for the first time, the problem of ensemble performance is considered comprehensively as a holistic theoretical, practical, and aesthetic system, within the context of multi-level connections revealing general patterns of development of performing professionalism. Conclusions. Even ancient Greek philosophers emphasised the uniqueness of ensemble performance among various forms of musical expression. For centuries, this type of musical practice has been positioned as the highest form of manifestation of the human spirit. Musical ensemble exists in two dimensions: personal and communicative, where these two constants in combination allow successfully realising the composer’s intention. Ensemble performance possesses a powerful intellectual, spiritual, emotional consolidating influence, realised in the practice of musical "communication." The peculiarities of the process of collective music-making in ensemble performance, close creative contact with partners, imply a high level of control during the creation of an artistic whole. In the embodiment of collective interpretation, "creative experience" is transformed into "creative co-experience". Ensemble performance is a complex and multifaceted process that requires musicians to have specific ensemble performance characteristics that develop only in conditions of collective music-making. It is an important means of shaping the personality of the musician and developing their creative abilities.