Chapter 4 of Performing Music Research examines three different types of observation: (1) participant observation, in which the investigator has a dual role, acting as both participant and researcher, thereby placing value on the insights gained through an “insider” perspective on the phenomenon under observation; (2) semi-structured observational methods, typically used when a researcher wants to observe specific behaviors as more of an “outsider” but also wishes to retain an element of open-ended enquiry; and (3) quantitative, structured observational research, which relies on a more objective and detached observation of predetermined categories. Throughout, the chapter considers the advantages of each of these methods and the challenges they pose.