The philosophical fiber: Rethinking ensemble conducting in light of a record producer’s practice

Abstract

The overall aim of this single case study is to find aspects of musical leadership relevant to ensemble conducting, using the theory of practice architectures to analyze a record producer’s practice. Data generation is performed mainly through transcripts and reflection logs based on YouTube interviews and videos. Insights into ensemble conducting are offered by exploring the following question: “What aspects of musical leadership relevant to conducting can be identified by applying the theory of practice architectures to an analysis of record producer Daniel Lanois’s practice?” The materials are analyzed based on three contexts of interpretation of meaning in hermeneutics. The theory of practice architectures serves as the analytical lens for the third context of interpretation. Main findings from this study are extracted into nine concepts that may serve as aspects of musical leadership relevant to conducting: a fast communication system, a self-adjusting act, black dubs, locations, operating by limitation, master station, the philosophical fiber, preparing, and sonic ambience. These and similar concepts may offer new insights into ensemble conducting in contexts similar to recording situations.

Keywords

• musical leadership
• ensemble conducting
• record producer
• practice architectures
• musical concepts