What Makes a Performance "Authentic"?

Dear Viola family!

“Authenticity” gets thrown around a lot in music—but what does it really mean?

Does it mean following the composer’s intentions? Staying faithful to a style? Being emotionally honest? Or just sounding convincing, no matter how you get there?

👉 In your view, what makes a performance feel “authentic”?

Have you heard (or played) something that felt totally real—even if it didn’t follow the expected rules?

Curious to hear how you all define this elusive word.