Audience’s perceived expectancy and authenticity of classical music performance by digital musical instrument mobile apps

Classical music is characterized by its standardized practices and established patterns of audience behavior. Recent advancements in digital musical instrument (DMI) and mobile technology may potentially offer a means by which the art form can further evolve. This paper presents a study that aims to examine the audience’s perception of classical music concerts performed by ensembles using DMI mobile apps and tablets. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including a questionnaire survey administered to audiences (N = 141) attending a classical music concert featuring repertoire performed by DMI mobile apps ensembles, as well as semi-structured interviews conducted with a subset of participants (n = 13). The survey results revealed significant, strong, and positive correlations between participants’ enjoyment of listening to classical music, frequency of attending classical music concerts, expectancy, and authenticity. The interviews addressed relevant issues, such as differences in ensemble and instrumental practices, timbral quality, and the capabilities of DMI mobile apps. While there were negative perceptions regarding expressive body movements, emotional expression, and interaction among performers, positive feedback regarding the use of DMI mobile apps affirmed the potential to introduce innovative pedagogical approaches in school music education, cultivate a younger audience base, and bring fresh ideas to this genre. Copyright © 2023 by The Regents of the University of California.