The Experience of Noye's Fludde : A church and community adventure in music-making and learning

Abstract

This paper addresses music learning as it occurred in a church and community production of Benjamin Britten's opera Noye's Fludde . As music director, the author was a participant as well as researcher. Interviews and informal conversations with cast members were conducted both during and after the performance period. A performance video added a further dimension to the data. Evidence from the data demonstrates that music learning occurred in three areas: vocal/choral development, musicianship, and socialisation. Participants noted advances in the art of singing, aural skills, the combining of singing with movement, and cited difficulties with memorisation. Gains were made in music literacy and performance skill, and musical horizons were broadened. Social aspects included the beginner to professional continuum, the intergenerational mix and the emergence of a sense of community amongst the participants. Learning related to conceptions of both music training and music education.