Abstract:
INTRODUCTION: Music repertoire selection is a process driven by music conductors.
They focus on scoring, ensemble composition, acquisition methods (i.e., acquiring
the music). Information needs and seeking are core to repertoire selection and
conductors’ tasks/roles. It cannot be considered in isolation; other conductor
responsibilities, past experiences, and external factors (e.g., finances) influence the
process and information seeking. We report findings from an exploratory study
conducted in 2023 with 37 conductors.
METHOD: Brief literature review, triangulated with findings from a mixed-method
study. A semi-structured questionnaire collected quantitative data from 37
conductors and individual online interviews collected qualitative data from two
conductors.
ANALYSIS: Quantitative data revealed typical tasks requiring information, issues to
consider in repertoire selection (e.g., text, ensemble capabilities), internet usage
and other information seeking activities and sources. Qualitative data elaborated
on factors influencing repertoire selection and information seeking e.g., repertoire
inspiration and financial factors.
RESULTS & DISCUSSION: Three core themes influencing information seeking are
discussed: process of repertoire selection, user (individual conductor)
characteristics, external factors. The repertoire selection (process) is mapped
against information seeking behaviour (activities, sources), user characteristics and
external factors.
CONCLUSION: Music repertoire selection’s interdependence with other tasks of
music conductors, the importance of individuality and inevitable external factors,
influence information seeking.
Description:
This article forms part of a special Issue : proceedings of the 15th ISIC - The Information Behaviour Conference, Aalborg, Denmark, August 26-29, 2024.