ABSTRACT
In order to analyse the constituent aspects of musical performance, it is necessary to establish the underlying processes by which performers’ musical intentions are physically manifested as sound. This chapter is concerned with the processes by which individual musicians interact with their instruments. A thorough understanding of the phenomenon of musical performance will provide the basis for a more holistic view of the ways performers’ actions may be interpreted by other musicians. The chapter explores how the ideomotor principle may provide an explanation for intentional actions, both in musical and nonmusical contexts. It aims to identify the constituent aspects of embodied knowledge in solo performance. Skilled solo performance necessitates the tacit understanding of the relationship between musical intention, action and resulting sonic effect. The chapter investigates how instrumental pedagogy and individual practice develop Mode 2 knowledge in performers.
