Gestures in Music : A Study of the Concertmaster’s Communication through Gesture and Movement Patterns

Gestures in Music – A Study of the Concertmaster’s Communication through Gesture and Movement Patterns. This bachelor’s thesis explores the use of gestures by a concertmaster as a means of leading and communicating with an ensemble. The study stems from a personal aspiration to deepen my understanding of embodied leadership and to apply this knowledge in the role of concertmaster. In addition to analyzing physical movement, the thesis also examines how the study of musical scores can inform and support the development of gestures. The method of research involved video analysis of four professional concertmasters, focusing on their physical movements and the musical intentions underlying those movements. The observations were compiled, internalized and applied to relevant repertoire in ensembles in which I actively perform. Additionally, to gain further insight into gestural practice two interviews with professional concertmasters were conducted. The results of this study are presented through analysis, musical excerpts, video links, and my own recordings. The reader is invited to follow my thought process throughout the project as I internalize and develop various types of gestures. Finally, skills acquired are discussed, along with reflections on what makes musical gestures a personal form of expression.