Visiting virtuosos’ expressivity across cultures: Acoustic analysis of a sanjo virtuoso’s performance

Abstract

Studies on music performance have received greater attention in the last several decades since the establishment of musical performance studies, and emotional expressivity has taken an important place in the study of emotional communication. The methodological or thematic integration of these domains in the study of music performance may expand the rationale for studying performance. The purpose of this study was to explore a virtuoso’s expressivity in terms of sanjo-specific features, including jangdan, indicating a rhythmic pattern, and jo, a structural feature that conveys emotional meanings. We investigated tempo and dynamics in the melodies within the unit of a jangdan across jo and those acoustic cues related to the jo transition. The findings suggest that the virtuoso, Kim Juk-pa, differentiated tempo and dynamics in the conveyance of structural features of jo. Tempo and dynamics were indicative of a jo shift, acting as a clue for her individuality. This provides current performers with critical sources for understanding the virtuoso’s expressivity corresponding with jo’s changes. The sanjo virtuoso’s individuality could be further elaborated via multi-dimensional analysis of historically informed recordings; this approach to music performance would lead to improved learning, transmission, and creation of new forms of music across cultures.