Presenters
Abstract
In his groundbreaking work, Homo Ludens: A Study of the Play Element in Culture, Johan Huizinga writes that secrecy is an important characteristic of play experience. He states, “The exceptional and special position of play is most tellingly illustrated by the fact that it loves to surround itself with an air of secrecy.” Secrecy adds to the appeal of play, but the implication here that play flaunts its secrecy is contradictory and confusing.
What does secrecy mean? How can the notion of secrecy and its flaunting best be reconciled? Certainly play cannot be entirely wrapped in a cloak of the unknown; doing so would mask its presence entirely. Some aspect of play must be available in order that the play itself is recognized. How does enough play manifest that secrecy is apparent, without giving away the secret? How does this relate to musical play and can it be actively evoked to enhance music experience?
This presentation and brief performance will explore the dynamic secrecy adds to musical play and how it gives “just enough” away to compel audience members (and even performers) to more fully engage.