Exploring experiences of gratitude during musicking in a community orchestra: an intrinsic case study

Introduction: Within the context of growing scholarly interest in the role of positive emotions and virtues in music education, this study explores experiences of gratitude during musicking among members of diverse cultures and ages (10-79) in a community orchestra in South Africa. Methods: A qualitative intrinsic case study design was employed to explore 13 orchestra members' experiences of gratitude while musicking, using open-ended, semi-structured interviews. The data was thematically analysed using ATLAS.ti 25. Results: Three central themes were generated from the data analysis: (1) gratitude as experienced across ages (10-79) and cultures within the orchestra, (2) the triadic view of gratitude, encompassing benevolent intentions, benefits received, and the roles of beneficiaries and benefactors within the orchestra community, and (3) three upward cycles-the chain of appreciation, the chain of reciprocity, and the broaden-and-build features of gratitude-that foster social cohesion, prosocial behaviour, individual well-being, and better musical performances. Discussion: The study demonstrated that understanding appreciation and reciprocity chains can encourage gratitude, which in turn broadens musical and interpersonal skills and builds flourishing individuals and music communities.