That concert is performed live is essential to its definition, particularly in contrast with non-live performances on recordings or radio broadcasts. Yet, despite the centrality of the issue, there is little research asking whether there is indeed a distinctive nature to performing live. This master thesis employs techniques of ethnographic research, analysis and qualitative interviewing to explore empirically originating understandings of how ‘liveness’ influences music performance from artist’s perspective. The topic is highly relevant and challenging as it explores the importance of performing live as opposed to mediatised performance (radio, TV broadcasts, CD recordings). ‘Liveness’ is a concept that applies to the theatre and music but not to the other forms of arts, such as visual arts, literature since the core of ‘liveness’ lies within the simultaneous presence of the artist and the audience. In terms of scope of literature in this area, this specific topic is still rather under-researched with growing interest in its relevance. Whereas there are many researchers and articles exploring ‘liveness’ in theatre or from audience perception, this thesis fills the niche of the impact of performing live upon the artist in the field of music.

That concert is performed live is essential to its definition, particularly in contrast with non-live
performances on recordings or radio broadcasts. Yet, despite the centrality of the issue, there is
little research asking whether there is indeed a distinctive nature to performing live. This master
thesis employs techniques of ethnographic research, analysis and qualitative interviewing to
explore empirically originating understandings of how ‘liveness’ influences music performance
from artist’s perspective. The topic is highly relevant and challenging as it explores the
importance of performing live as opposed to mediatised performance (radio, TV broadcasts, CD
recordings). ‘Liveness’ is a concept that applies to the theatre and music but not to the other
forms of arts, such as visual arts, literature since the core of ‘liveness’ lies within the
simultaneous presence of the artist and the audience. In terms of scope of literature in this area,
this specific topic is still rather under-researched with growing interest in its relevance. Whereas
there are many researchers and articles exploring ‘liveness’ in theatre or from audience
perception, this thesis fills the niche of the impact of performing live upon the artist in the field of
music.