From Printed Score to Performance: Access and Collaboration in the New Zealand Orchestral Community

Abstract

Research into the practical needs and activities of orchestra librarians in New Zealand is rare. This study explores how orchestra librarians and conductors search for, access and manage printed music for the orchestras' players. The constraints of access and availability and the collaborative relationships that enable the sharing of resources are also examined. The research uses a qualitative approach with data collected from open-ended interview questions with eighteen participants who come from professional and amateur orchestras and the National Library of New Zealand. The findings show that orchestras in New Zealand access music from many different sources and the National Library plays a key role in this activity. The groups face constraints in accessing contemporary music (except New Zealand music) due to cost and copyright issues and there are constraints relating to the condition and use of printed hire music. The report concludes that there is a need for a national orchestra association in New Zealand to provide support for both amateur and professional orchestras. Cataloguing projects to increase the visibility and access of existing music resources and training programmes for performance librarians are other areas that are considered.