UC San Diego

This dissertation identifies select power structures in society and considers their influence on the modern classical musician, labeled the classical interpreter. This is extended by offering insight on the social group of percussion players that has codified the continued existence of the classical interpreter percussionist throughout the 20th century. Live interpretation of another person’s work is a key aspect of the classical interpreter’s practice, and the mediation of this event is examined both theoretically and practically. This is done so through the lens of participatory internet practices, and heavily relies on the archival and dissemination properties of YouTube.