Learning to Be Creatively Expressive Performers

Research conducted on the development of expressive performance capabilities suggests that children can learn to demonstrate expressiveness in their music-making. Expressivity includes musical interpretation, performance technique, and musical and personal creativity. This article examines creativity as an important component of musical expressivity in relation to (1) musical structures, (2) the emotions and sensations evoked by music, and (3) communication with ensemble members and the audience. Included are practical examples and ideas for teachers to help their students learn about performance expressivity on instruments and with voice, along with exercises to help them become creatively expressive performers.