Music as Social Life: Belonging and Identity

This curation examines the intricate relationship between music, community identity, and belonging. By exploring sociomusicology, activism through music, and the transformative power of orchestral performances, readers will gain insight into how musical expression fosters social cohesion. The journey culminates in an exploration of music as a participatory social practice.

1. Read
   Sociomusicology · Wikipedia

   Defines sociomusicology as an academic field that studies the social aspects of music and its role in society. It highlights the dual focus on music behavior and the societal context in which music exists.

2. Read
   

   Using Music to Inspire a Generation to Save the World - Inside Climate News · Inside Climate News

   Documents the 2017 Global Citizen Festival in Central Park, where 60,000 attendees engaged with music and activism to address pressing global issues. The event featured prominent artists like Beyoncé and Ed Sheeran, emphasizing the power of music in social movements.

3. Watch
   

   Om de wereld in 50 concerten (Around the World in 50 Concerts) - Trailer (Doc Fortnight 2015) · YouTube

   Captures the essence of the Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra's world tour, showcasing how music transcends borders and connects diverse communities. Director Heddy Honigmann intertwines orchestral performances with personal narratives from musicians about their instruments.

4. Book
   

   Music as Social Life: The Politics of Participation · Bookshop.org

   Examines how music acts as a social practice, emphasizing the importance of participation in shaping musical experiences. Turino argues that community involvement in music fosters a sense of belonging and collective identity.

The selected pieces collectively illustrate how music serves as a vital component of social life, reflecting and shaping community identities. Starting with the foundational concepts of sociomusicology, the curation progresses through real-world examples of music as a catalyst for social change and concludes with an in-depth analysis of music's role in fostering participation and community. This progression allows readers to see both theoretical and practical dimensions of music's impact on society.

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