Performer or Musicologist

The Difference Between the Perception of a Performer and a Musicologist

Most Musicologists spend a significant portion of their lives engrossed in libraries, meticulously unraveling the authenticity of compositions while contemplating the nuances of their performance. In stark contrast, performers embrace a more personalized approach, navigating the vast realm of possibilities to find the methods that resonate most deeply with their artistic sensibilities. When interpreting a composition, performers often deviate from the strict confines of the score, injecting their own expressive flair to leave an indelible mark on their performance. Take, for example, the instance when a musician deliberately applies a ritardando, subtly decelerating the tempo to heighten the emotional impact of a passage. This artistic choice, while not explicitly dictated by the composer, adds a touch of individuality and resonance to the music. However, such deviations may be perceived differently by Musicologists, who prioritize unwavering authenticity and strive to honor the composer's original intentions. From their perspective, these interpretive liberties may fail to do justice to the composition and its intended sound. On the other hand, performers may argue that these personal embellishments enhance the music and cater to their own creative vision. The truth lies in the fact that there is no universally correct outlook on this matter. Perception is subjective, with each individual harboring unique viewpoints. Some may proclaim that "expressivity is more important than documentable correctness," embracing the allure of unbridled artistic expression. Conversely, others may adopt the stance of "educated intuition," placing equal emphasis on both the score and the performance itself. Both perspectives are valid in their own right, offering distinct interpretations that contribute to the rich tapestry of musical discourse.