What is Interpretation?
As the main text Basics explains, interpretation assumes various meanings depending on factors such as the number of participating musicians, the performance setting, and the performance history of the work. This discussion focuses specifically on one musician interpreting a musical score during a live concert for an audience, thus it can be termed a performative interpretation, distinct from an audio recording.
In addition to the actual performance, several other elements hold significance in this context. These include the broader tradition of interpretation, previous interpretations of the specific piece, interaction with the audience, and the traditional, contextual, and cultural aspects of concerts.
When is Interpretation Shaped?
Interpretation is likely a continually evolving dynamic between the musician, the work itself, and the concert environment. However, in the process of forming/performing, Rastogi describes how the execution of the music may result from countless small decisions made consciously or subconsciously during rehearsals. Whether these decisions are made with awareness or not, we can consider interpretation as a developmental phase involving rehearsal of the score and a production phase involving the actual performance.
Are Interpretations Repeatable?
While no two interpretations are identical, musicians may aim to replicate the intentions of their interpretation across performances, for instance during tours. Similarly, different musicians may produce interpretations that are within the same interpretation paradigm and with similar artistic intentions.
Is There a “Right” Interpretation?
While a performance may be deemed successful when intentions align with the performance or when it resonates profoundly with the audience, there is no universally correct interpretation. This is because interpretation is a fusion of the static musical score with the ever-changing dynamics of the performer, audience, and surrounding culture.
How to Evaluate an Interpretation?
Assessing interpretation can be approached in various ways. One might gauge its impact through questions such as: Did the performance captivate your attention? Did it evoke fascination or leave an impression? Did it convey intriguing emotions or expressions? Did it make you feel engaged? Alternatively, one might attempt the complicated task of comparing the performance with an imagined or remembered performance of the same works, considering factors like novelty, persuasiveness, and impact.
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