Experiencing 'flow' in jazz performance

by Hytönen-Ng, Elina

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Title Statements

Full title :Experiencing 'flow' in jazz performance / Elina Hytönen-Ng.

Summary

"The term 'flow' refers to experiences where the musician moves into a consciousness in which time seems to be suspended and perception of reality is blurred by unconscious forces. An essential part of the jazz tradition, which often serves as the foundation of the musician's identity, flow is recognised within the greater jazz community as a critical factor in accomplished musicianship. Flow as a concept is so deeply embedded in the scene that these experiences are not generally discussed. It contributes to the musicians' work motivation, providing a vital level of satisfaction and accomplishment. The power of the experience, consciously or unconsciously, has given rise to the creation of heroic images, in which jazz musicians are seen as being bold, yet vulnerable, strong and masculine, but still capable of expressing emotions. In this discourse, musicians are pictured as people constantly putting themselves on the line, exposing themselves and their hearts to one another as well as to the audience. Heroic profiles are richly constructed within the jazz scene, and their incorporation into narratives of flow suggests that such images are inseparable from jazz. It is thus unclear how far the musicians are simply reporting personal experience as opposed to unconsciously perpetuating a profoundly internalised mythology. Drawing on eighteen interviews conducted with professional jazz musicians from around the world, Elina Hytönen examines the fundamentals of the phenomenon of flow in jazz that has led to this genre's popularity. Furthermore, she draws on how flow experiences are viewed and constructed by jazz musicians, the meanings they attach to it, and the quality of music that it inspires.

Edition Statements

Publication Date:cop. 2013.

Publication Statements

Publisher(s):Ashgate
Place of Publication:Farnham (GB)
Language:eng
Publication Date:cop. 2013.

The Physical Object

Description:1 vol. (xv-167 p.) : : illustrations. ; : 25 cm.

Edition Identifiers

ISBN:9781409447900, 1409447901
oclc:ocn863644538
LC Classification:ML3830
Dewey Decimal:781.65/11

Unravelling flow experiences -- 'Like a junkie looking for a musical fix' : positive feelings and motivation from flow -- 'Purely for the love of music' : emotionalism in discussions of flow -- 'Always concentrating on the music' : highlighting professionalism -- 'Profound merging with people' : enhanced collectivity within the band -- 'The whole mystery of being human' : spirituality and flow -- 'Unreserved approval' : the importance of the audience -- 'Smallish intimate places' : optimal performance venues -- Contextual issues -- Wider perspectives on flow and altered states of consciousness.

Subjects

Conscience consciousness Jazz musicians -- Psychology Music -- Performance Musiciens de jazz -- Psychologie Musique -- Aspect psychologique Musique -- Exécution Performance (psychologie) -- Dans la mu… Rendement au travail -- Aspect psycholo…