The research project ‘spelen tussen de lijnen’ investigates how pupils in JPR ensembles can take greater ownership of their musical learning process within part-time arts education (DKO). The research starts from the question of how insights and working methods from group music practices within classical ensembles can serve as a source of inspiration to contribute to a more equal musical contribution from all group members within a JPR combo.

Within this practical research, various working methods were tested in three JPR combos. Through observations, moments of reflection and targeted musical tasks, the study investigated how pupils deal with responsibility, collaboration and musical decision-making. During the sessions, various aspects of musical interaction and collaboration emerged, such as leadership, dynamics, mutual communication and the role of the teacher within the group process.

The practical sessions demonstrate that musical agency does not automatically arise from giving pupils complete freedom. Familiarity with the repertoire, a safe group dynamic and a balance between autonomy and guidance appear to be important conditions for enabling pupils to participate actively in the musical process. Furthermore, the findings suggest that the teacher’s role is shifting from that of a directing authority to that of a facilitator, thereby creating space for interaction, initiative and joint musical choices.