Historical increases in expert music performance skills: optimizing instruments, playing techniques, and training

Abstract

AbstractThis chapter analyses changes in public music performance and performance skills across historical periods. It examines the increases in preparation and specialization over time that have led to the achievement of higher levels of performance. It describes the mechanisms that allow musicians to excel, such as innovative playing techniques and improvements made to musical instruments. It also discusses the assimilation of these changes into a body of shared knowledge, allowing future musicians to acquire superior techniques and thus surpass their predecessors.