Finding Democracy in Music

Musicians have explored how aspects of their practice embody democratic principles for a century, seeking to go beyond music's capacity to contribute to political causes. This study explores how democracy may be found in music in a plurality of ways, depending on the perspective taken to its manifold relationships. Contributing authors explore various genres and methodologies, particularly focusing on the contested nature of democracy and the gaps between utopian aspiration and reality.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 222 pages
Publication date: 30 May 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

For over a century, the concept of democracy has ignited the creative imaginations of musicians, pushing them to explore the potential of music to contribute to broader political causes. Beyond its established role in advocating for specific political agendas, musicians have delved into the ways in which various aspects of their practice embody democratic principles. This exploration can manifest through diverse approaches to compositional material, performance practices, audience relationships, and modes of dissemination and distribution.

Finding Democracy in Music is a groundbreaking study that provides a comprehensive exploration of the diverse ways in which democracy can be found within music. The volume adopts a multifaceted approach, considering the multitude of relationships inherent in music and the multifaceted concept of democracy. Contributing authors examine a wide range of musical genres, including orchestral composition, jazz, the post-war avant-garde, online performance, and contemporary popular music, employing a diverse array of theoretical, archival, and ethnographic methodologies.

A central theme of the volume is the contested nature of democracy as a category, and the gaps that often arise between utopian aspirations and the realities of social and political contexts. The authors delve into these gaps, interrogating how music helps to articulate and shape our social lives and political ideologies. Through their insightful analyses, the volume sheds light on the ways in which music serves as a powerful tool for expressing and promoting democratic values, as well as for challenging and critiquing existing power structures.

One of the key contributions of this study is its recognition of the diverse perspectives and experiences that shape the relationship between music and democracy. The authors acknowledge that democracy is not a universal concept but rather a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that takes different forms in different cultural and historical contexts. They explore how music reflects and responds to these diverse perspectives, contributing to the ongoing dialogue about the nature and value of democracy.

Furthermore, the volume highlights the role of music in promoting social justice and equity. Music has the ability to transcend boundaries and connect people from different backgrounds, fostering empathy and understanding. By exploring the ways in which music can be used as a tool for promoting social change and challenging oppressive systems, the authors demonstrate the potential of music to be a powerful force for positive transformation.

In conclusion, Finding Democracy in Music is a groundbreaking study that offers a comprehensive exploration of the diverse ways in which democracy can be found within music. Through its multidisciplinary approach, the volume sheds light on the complex relationships between music, democracy, and social and political contexts. By interrogating the contested nature of democracy and the gaps that often arise between utopian aspirations and reality, the study contributes to our understanding of the role of music in shaping our social lives and politics. This volume will be of interest to scholars, musicians, and anyone who seeks to explore the intersection of music, culture, and democracy.

Weight: 410g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367499457