Caleb

Warnar
Kari K Veblen
Music 1800
December 12, 2015

Zaffini, E. (2015). Using Informances in general music. General Music Today, 28(2), 13-17.
doi:10.1177/1048371314555221

In this article, Zaffini explains the use of informances in music. Rather than just the

performing of a musical work, Zaffini states how informances can be used to elaborate on a
musical work through a performance of knowledge. This may be by performing various
interpretations of a work, providing historical connections, or making artistic connections to the
work.

I found it interesting how informances could be used within music programs. As Zaffini

sates, the primary benefits of informances include: creating, performing, responding, and
connecting. While performing, I think it would be very interesting to have students perform
their interpretation of a musical work. This would make each performance special, since each
student will have their own unique interpretation. Also, by making connections to other forms
of art such as visual art or dance, the audience may gain additional perspective for the musical
work that is being performed.

I was surprised by the various uses of informances in music education, especially when

used as a marketing tool. I have only ever known performance as a marketing tool in music
education, where a music teacher would have their students play repertoire as a demonstration

of what they have accomplished. However, I now know that unlike performances, informances
are a demonstration of the students creativity, knowledge, and independence as musicians.

While I realize that the concept of informances is still relatively new, I am slightly

frustrated that I never had any sort of similar opportunity in my high school experience. I would
have enjoyed being able to give my interpretation of a musical work and share the history
surrounding it. I have always found that the audience becomes more attentive and engaged
when a performance exceeds merely the playing of a work.

As a comment to the author, I am thoroughly pleased with this article because it

introduced me to something entirely different than what I have known previously. I would love
the opportunity to use informances once I become a music educator.