Physiological synchrony and shared flow state in Javanese gamelan: positively associated while improvising, but not for traditional performance.
Frontiers in Psychology January 1, 2023 Hannah Jennet Gibbs, Anna Czepiel, Hauke Egermann
Shared flow, an optimal balance between challenge and ability during group action, was studied in Javanese gamelan performance, where musicians must coordinate. Measuring heart rate and skin conductance continuously, the study examined associations between flow states, physiological synchrony, and gamelan playing in advanced and beginner groups playing traditional pieces and improvising. Factor analysis identified two dimensions of shared flow: Awareness and Absorption. Inter-subject correlation showed greater physiological synchrony during traditional playing for experienced musicians and during improvisation for beginners. Linear mixed models revealed positive associations between synchronized physiology and shared flow during improvisation, but negative associations during traditional playing, regardless of experience. The work demonstrates methods for quantifying shared flow in music-making.