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Arts & Communication Ethnographic study of creative dynamics in music

such as self-criticism and lack of confidence, can pose For many, the laboratory provided an opportunity to
significant challenges for musicians when approaching reassess their relationship with music and rediscover their
new and unfamiliar creative settings. However, through creative essence, leading to profound shifts in how they
his participation in the laboratory, the pianist experienced viewed themselves as artists.
a transformation. The emotionally supportive environment The guitarist, for example, initially felt confined by rigid
– one that fostered safety, encouragement, and exploration – theoretical structures, which had caused him to lose touch
allowed him to gradually shed his insecurities. with his creative instincts. He expressed a desire to return

Le Breton’s concept of how emotional environments can to a more authentic form of expression, noting that he
transform perceptions and capabilities becomes evident wanted to “feel like himself again.” The laboratory’s focus
in the pianist’s journey. The laboratory’s supportive on open-ended exploration and improvisation helped him
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atmosphere, coupled with the freedom to experiment reconnect with his musical identity, ultimately leading him
without judgment, led the pianist to feel “much more to resume composing after a prolonged creative block. This
comfortable, much more secure, and happy with what I process of rediscovery demonstrates how the laboratory
can offer myself.” This shift in emotional state highlights provided a space for participants to realign with their
the laboratory’s role in helping participants overcome artistic shelves, free from the constraints of formal musical
internal limitations, particularly when it comes to self- theory. Singer 3 had a similarly transformative experience,
image and creative potential. One particularly impactful noting that the laboratory exceeded his expectations
moment for the pianist was playing in the dark, which and reshaped his view of both life and art. “I see that
acted as a powerful creative stimulus. This unique dynamic interpreting life is different for those who deal with art,” he
led him to “travel through the universe,” allowing him to reflected, highlighting how his artistic practice influenced
disconnect from external distractions and immerse himself his worldview. This participant’s journey illustrates the
deeply in the music. This disconnection from the visual deep connection between creative expression and personal
world heightened his connection with his emotions and identity, as the laboratory helped him cultivate a more
instrument, creating a space for uninhibited creative flow. expansive understanding of his role as both a musician and
This experience was so memorable and transformative that an individual.
the pianist often mentions it when describing the laboratory The bassist also experienced a significant shift in his
to others. The deep emotional and creative connection he musical identity, despite entering the laboratory with
felt in that moment marked a pivotal point in his journey, no clear expectations. As the sessions progressed, he
allowing him to move beyond self-doubt and experience the found himself rethinking his goals and reaffirming his
joy and freedom of spontaneous creation. By eliminating commitment to music. He observed that “these meetings
visual stimuli, the pianist was able to tap into a more visceral just accelerated the processes that were already coming,”
level of musical expression. This intense connection with suggesting that the laboratory acted as a catalyst for
his emotions allowed him to transcend earlier insecurities personal growth and artistic reinvention. The emotional
and embrace his capabilities more fully. The laboratory, environment of the laboratory, which fostered both
through these creative experiments, provided a space for the introspection and exploration, played a key role in this
pianist to discover new facets of his musicianship, leading redefinition of identity. This theme speaks to the dynamic
to enhanced self-assurance and a richer creative experience. nature of musical identity, which evolves in response to
These experiences align with Le Breton’s anthropology both personal experiences and social interactions. Howard
of emotions, which argues that emotional responses, while Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligences is particularly
seemingly internal and intimate, are shaped by external relevant here, as it highlights how creativity manifests in
social factors. The participants’ initial fears and insecurities different forms and contexts. In the laboratory, participants
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were mitigated by the laboratory’s emotionally supportive were able to rediscover and redefine their musical identities
environment, enabling them to overcome creative blocks. through the exploration of new possibilities, unbound by
This theme highlights the importance of emotional safety traditional expectations.
in fostering creativity, as participants were able to navigate
their personal barriers and engage more deeply with their 3.1.3. The role of group dynamics in creative
artistic potential. development
Group dynamics emerged as a crucial factor in the
3.1.2. Redefining musical identity participants’ creative development, with many reflecting

Another central theme that emerged from participants’ on how collaboration enriched their artistic processes and
experiences was the redefinition of their musical identities. contributed to personal growth. The laboratory’s emphasis

Volume 3 Issue 2 (2025) 5 doi: 10.36922/ac.4782