6-2-2 Communication with Audience Explained

Key Concepts

Communication with the audience in music performance involves several key concepts:

• Eye Contact: Establishing a visual connection with the audience.
• Body Language: Using posture, gestures, and movement to convey emotion and engagement.
• Audience Interaction: Engaging with the audience through spoken words or musical cues.
• Stage Presence: The overall demeanor and confidence displayed on stage.
• Storytelling: Conveying a narrative or message through the performance.

Eye Contact

Eye contact is crucial for establishing a connection with the audience. It helps to create a sense of intimacy and engagement. Performers should make occasional eye contact with different sections of the audience to ensure everyone feels included.

Example: A solo pianist might look up from the keys and make eye contact with the audience during a particularly expressive passage, enhancing the emotional impact of the performance.

Body Language

Body language includes posture, gestures, and movement. It can convey emotion, energy, and engagement. Open and relaxed posture helps to create a welcoming atmosphere, while expressive gestures can enhance the musical narrative.

Example: A conductor uses expansive gestures to communicate the dynamics and tempo of the music, while a violinist might sway slightly to emphasize a lyrical melody.

Audience Interaction

Audience interaction involves engaging with the audience through spoken words or musical cues. This can include introductions, explanations, or even direct interaction during the performance.

Example: A jazz singer might invite the audience to clap along during a lively tune, or a classical pianist might briefly explain the background of a piece before performing it.

Stage Presence

Stage presence refers to the overall demeanor and confidence displayed on stage. It includes how a performer carries themselves, their confidence in their performance, and their ability to captivate the audience.

Example: A rock guitarist with a dynamic stage presence might move around the stage, interact with band members, and engage the audience with their energy and enthusiasm.

Storytelling

Storytelling involves conveying a narrative or message through the performance. This can be done through the choice of repertoire, the interpretation of the music, and the way the performance is structured.

Example: A singer-songwriter might perform a set of songs that tell a story about a personal journey, using lyrics, melody, and dynamics to convey the emotional arc of the narrative.

Analogies

Think of eye contact as the handshake that starts a conversation, setting the tone for the interaction. Body language is like the tone of voice and facial expressions that convey emotion and meaning.

Audience interaction is the dialogue, where the performer and audience exchange energy and feedback. Stage presence is the overall charisma and confidence that make the conversation engaging.

Storytelling is the narrative thread that ties the conversation together, making it cohesive and meaningful.