Repetition, an almost universal element of music, offers unique opportunities for performers who aim to create effective musical interpretations, but also poses some challenges. This study has been written to point out that the issue of “repetition” is a topic worth considering, especially in terms of music performance. This paper focuses on the performative interpretation of repeated passages (i.e., “returns”) within a musical narration and aims to discuss the topic through a review of selected performance analysis studies and cognitive researches from contemporary literature. The paper explores the impact of subtle variations in elements such as micro-timing, dynamics and articulation that naturally occur during the performance of recurring thematic passages. It presents arguments and findings from the existing body of research and literature on how these variations can affect listeners’ perception, both cognitively and aesthetically

A central focus throughout the article is the three primary parameters performers can manipulate, whether consciously or not, to either differentiate repetitions or to meticulously avoid differentiating them: micro-timing, articulation, and dynamics. Regarding micro-timing, the article reviews performance analysis studies that analyzed the subtle timing profiles between thematical repetitions in performances of works by composers like Mozart, Chopin, and Schumann. These studies revealed performers enact repetitions across a broad spectrum, from near-identical replications to substantially differentiated variations bordering on improvisation. An interesting observation was that veteran performers of earlier periods exhibited freer timing variations between repetitions compared to later performers of the recording era. Overall, it was observed that greater variability tended to emerge in the treatment of lower hierarchical levels like individual notes and chords, rather than at the higher-level elements such as phrasing. This aligns with cognitive research indicating listeners pay closer attention to fine details when passages are repeated. In terms of articulation and dynamics, the article emphasizes the importance of considering both the formal structural context and narrative emotional context of the passage being repeated. Even subtle expressive adjustments that reflect shifts in a passage’s role or meaning within the unfolding musical narration can highlight recontextualizations for the listener. For instance, performance analyses examining how performer Sokolov performs the repetitions of the main theme in Chopin’s Polonaise Op.40 No.1 show the delicate dynamic shading between repetitions. Additionally, experimental studies confirm that choices between legato versus staccato articulation induce different perceptual and emotional responses in listeners.

The perceived “acceptability” of performers’ choices regarding differentiating or precisely replicating repetitions depends on factors like the historical/social context of the music genre, the work’s structure, audience expectations, and so forth. Broadly, literal repetitions provide coherence and structural emphasis, aiding cognitive processing and clearer form perception for listeners. Introducing variations imbues each repetition with distinctiveness, unexpectedness, and a sense of narrative development, creating an impression of intentionality that prompts renewed attentive listening from audiences. 

While repetition may appear deceptively simple on the surface, it harbors a wealth of interpretative intricacies and yields various aesthetic outcomes that demand careful consideration. When repeating a passage within a work, the performer’s conscious or unconscious aesthetic choices regarding precisely replicating or subtly differentiating the repetition will shape the resulting impact of interpretation. However, definitive prescriptions for these choices remain elusive, given the inherent complexity of artistic endeavors. The nuances of repetition interpretation do not lend themselves to formulaic solutions universally applicable in all scenarios. Nevertheless, analytically contemplating the effects of one’s performance decisions regarding repetitive passages, in a work-specific manner, can prove beneficial for performers seeking to create more impactful listening experiences. Carefully evaluating how choices pertaining to repetition treatment will influence cognitive and aesthetic outcomes, within the particular context of a given work, can lead to richer, more thoughtful interpretations. In summary, while musical repetition may seem deceptively simple, it in fact presents opportunities and challenges for nuanced interpretation that performers should recognize and thoughtfully harness to enable more effective musical expression. A deliberately analytical approach toward evaluating and selecting repetition interpretation strategies can empower performers to make aesthetically sensitive choices that create more compelling listening experiences.