Organizational dynamics in community ensembles

Abstract

Abstract Looking into organizational dynamics in community ensembles, this chapter addresses the questions of: (1) how musical, social, and paramusical factors shape participation in community music ensembles; (2) how participants progress from peripheral or non-participation to full participation in such ensembles; and (3) what factors both facilitate and impede such participation, and how these tensions might be addressed. The meaning of participation in community music ensembles is something which is constantly negotiated and renegotiated between those involved. The chapter introduces a number of theoretical perspectives as “lenses” through which to view the resulting discussion. These include a consideration of the inherent tensions involved in performing both “works” and “relationships” as a holistic practice, as well as the value of a “situated” understanding of sociocultural practice, and how this can lead to the formation of “rational communities” of practice which both include and exclude participants in the formation of group identity.