Abstract

Social ontology has mostly suggested unitary approaches to the question under which conditions certain groups and communities of people can be viewed as rational agents. However, the ways in which music groups make their decisions and act accordingly are diverse and depend on the structure of these groups. This chapter examines the extent to which one can speak of rationality in the actions of orchestras, ensembles, choirs, or bands. It contributes to the understanding of what can be defined as group rationality and what the conditions for the possibility of such a rationality are. After taking stock of various approaches to group action in the analytic and the phenomenological tradition, several scenarios for joint music making are analysed and various models for rationality in these scenarios are identified. In particular the examination of music groups without strict regulations, contracts, and documented procedures can challenge orthodox accounts of collective intentionality and rationality.