Collaborative composing with inclusive music ensembles: What attitude, knowledge and skills do composers need?

Abstract

Traditionally, composers create music individually and autonomously. The egalitarian relationships in inclusive music ensembles, with their blend of conventional and technological music instruments and their focus on collaborative composing processes, however, might challenge professional composers to work differently. This begs the question: Which attitude, knowledge, and skills do composers need to compose collaboratively with inclusive music ensembles? To answer this question, we set up a qualitative survey study in which participants of the project Collaborative Composing with Inclusive Ensembles at the Amsterdam Conservatoire were interviewed or completed an online questionnaire. The data were analysed thematically. Findings exemplified that composers need to develop attitudes, knowledge, and skills in both the social and musical domains. From a social perspective, they need to work from a sense of equity, develop an understanding of the construct of inclusion and draw on pedagogical skills. From a musical perspective, composers need to develop an open attitude towards collaborative composing, a broad understanding of the concept of music, and digital sound production skills. Integrating these attitudes, knowledge, and skills can bring about a shift from composing for instruments to composing with people.