An Investigation of Members’ Roles in Wind Quintets

Abstract

This article presents new findings regarding group processes in chamber ensembles. Following work by Young and Colman, Butterworth, and Murnighan and Conlon on the string quartet, a questionnaire was distributed to wind quintets throughout the UK. A total of 55 respondents, representing 20 ensembles, participated in the study. Quantitative and qualitative data revealed information about group formation, personnel recruitment and the use of deputies, leadership, seating positions, verbal and non-verbal communication, conflict, rehearsing and performing, audience effects, social aspects and administration. The current study focuses on the role of the horn player in the quintet and explores players’ attitudes and perceptions of their individual careers, quintet repertoire, concert promoters and string quartets as an opposing medium. Results are discussed with reference to the existing quartet studies and to social psychological theory of group dynamics.