Better in Tune : towards constructive facilitation process of orchestra auditions

Abstract

This research delves into the phenomenon of orchestra auditions, examining the current efforts made by the orchestra to improve the audition process. It also suggests additional ways to enhance the process, with a particular focus on the wellbeing and development of the candidates. The central research question guiding this thesis is: In what ways could professional orchestras facilitate a more constructive audition process for their candidates?

By examining the audition process through the lens of Gibson's theory of affordances, the study seeks to assess how these affordances are incorporated into the structure and logistics of auditions. The PERMA model is used to understand how specific actions during auditions can influence candidates' overall well-being and experience. Additionally, this study identifies the responsibilities of both orchestra musicians and organizations in improving the individual experience and well-being of audition candidates within the current audition framework.

A qualitative approach, grounded in a Community-Based Participatory Research (CBPR) framework, was employed. The findings indicate that adjustments made to the audition process by orchestras and organizations can significantly impact the audition environment, supporting candidates' development and wellbeing by reducing music performance anxiety and, therefore, elevating their sense of self-control and eventually increasing performance flow. Through an extensive literature review, this research identifies a substantial gap in the study of audition processes, emphasizing the need for continued investigation in this area.

Keywords: affordances, auditions, community-based participatory research, flow, music performance anxiety, music psychology, orchestra, PERMA, wellbeing