Optimal experiences of performance are important and desirable. In ensemble playing, these experiences are influenced by a connection between players. The present study sought to explore expert Western art ensemble musicians’ experiences of peak performance and co-performer empathy in order to construct a model of the relationship between these phenomena. Focus group interviews were conducted with five expert chamber ensembles. The resulting model showed optimal performance in expert ensemble playing to be a combination of co-performer empathy, components of flow, and performance conditions such as repertoire choice and environment. Co-performer empathy itself consisted of a shared approach to interpretation and to working together, an intentional awareness of how other players are operating on a musical and a practical level, and a special connection between players. Analysis also revealed spontaneous interpretative flexibility in performance to be a product of co-performer empathy.
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