Exploring lived experiences of ensemble performers with Dalcroze Eurhythmics : an interpretative phenomenological analysis

Abstract

The purpose of this interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) was to explore how performers understand their experiences of Dalcroze Eurhythmics while preparing the “Tango” and “Charleston” of the jazz ballet La revue de Cuisine by Bohuslav Martinů. This study was conducted with an ad hoc ensemble, of which I was also a member. In this qualitative study I followed an interpretative phenomenological approach, which is a research approach that examines how people make sense of their experiences. In this research I adapted the IPA design and applied it to creative qualitative research, as I was actively participating in my own research as an ensemble member, which is unusual in IPA but not in conflict with the core principles of IPA. The main method of data collection in IPA studies is the semi-structured interview. The seven people who were part of the ensemble were my participants and there were two rounds of semi-structured interviews after the five Dalcroze sessions with two experienced and qualified Dalcroze teachers on the Martinů work. The six super-ordinate themes that emerged through the interviews with the participants were: 1. Heightened awareness of music, time and space; 2. Beneficial for relationships in the ensemble; 3. Improved musicianship; 4. Enjoyment and well-being; 5. Informing pedagogy; and 6. Social and cognitive challenges. The super-ordinate themes could also be linked with the experience of “flow”, as described extensively by Csikszentmihalyi. This demonstrates that Dalcroze Eurhythmics can be linked with experiences of flow. Experiences of flow are very positive emotions, which will be beneficial for the performers in an ensemble. This study would be of interest for solo performers as well as ensemble performers as it highlights the usefulness of Dalcroze Eurhythmics for performance preparation. This study would also be of interest for performers doing research, as it presents a new and creative way of doing qualitative research and using one’s own experiences as performer as part of the research.