Just You, Just Me: Applying the constraints-led approach to binaural guitar performance.

Abstract

This practice-led research project investigates novel approaches to solo electric guitar performance for an advanced learner by undertaking a constraints-led practice intervention with a purpose-designed hybrid instrument. The constraints-led approach is a nonlinear pedagogical framework informed by ecological dynamics. Ecological dynamics merges findings from dynamical systems theory and ecological psychology, conceptualising the performer as a complex adaptive system able to self-organise under interacting constraints. To explore the framework, a hybrid electric guitar system utilising immersive audio technology was designed to provide atypical task and environmental constraints. The instrument affords real-time manipulation of spatialisation and requires headphone use. A self-regulated practice phase uncovered spatialisation performance techniques and the benefits of augmented auditory feedback for nonlinear learning. The research contributes ideas and materials to solo electric guitar performance and music-centred applications of constraints-led practice designs, with a particular focus on incorporating hybrid technology. The emergent, context-specific performance solutions discovered informed the creation of an original album of binaural solo electric guitar music.