Music and Social Inclusion: International Research and Practice in Complex Settings

This book explores the power of music in enhancing social inclusion, group cohesion, and cross-community work in post-conflict environments. It offers new research by an international team of experts from various fields and highlights the diverse ways in which learners of all ages participate in social music projects. The authors examine how social music projects can be fostered in complex settings and provide examples from schools and community settings. It is of interest to educators, policymakers, researchers, and students, as it draws on applied research from 14 countries, including ten in the Global South.

Format: Hardback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 30 December 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Musical activities have the potential to foster social inclusion by bringing people together, promoting understanding, and creating a sense of community. This can be particularly effective in post-conflict environments, where music can help to heal wounds, build bridges, and promote reconciliation.

One of the key ways in which music can enhance social inclusion is by promoting individual inclusion. Music can provide a platform for individuals to express themselves, connect with others, and build self-esteem. It can also be used to address social issues such as poverty, discrimination, and trauma, helping individuals to feel empowered and heard.

Group cohesion is another important aspect of social inclusion that can be enhanced through musical activities. Music can help to create a sense of belonging and identity among individuals, promoting a shared sense of purpose and values. It can also be used to build relationships and foster positive communication, which can be particularly important in post-conflict environments where trust and cooperation are essential.

Cross-community work is another area where music can play a significant role in promoting social inclusion. Music can be a powerful tool for breaking down barriers and promoting understanding between different groups. It can be used to create intercultural dialogue, build bridges between communities, and promote social cohesion.

There are many different ways in which social music programmes and interventions can be investigated. One approach is to use qualitative research methods, such as interviews, observations, and case studies, to explore the experiences of participants and the impact of social music projects on their lives. Another approach is to use quantitative research methods, such as surveys and experimental studies, to measure the effectiveness of social music interventions in promoting social inclusion.

This comprehensive volume offers new research on these questions by an international team of experts from the fields of music education, music psychology, ethnomusicology, and community music. The book celebrates the rich diversity of ways in which learners of all ages participate in social music projects in complex settings. Contributions focus broadly on musical and social processes, considering their conceptualisation and practices in a number of contexts. The authors examine how social music projects can be fostered in complex settings, drawing examples from schools and community settings. These critical chapters will inspire readers to think deeply about social music interventions and their development.

The book will be of crucial interest to educators, policymakers, researchers, and students, as it draws on applied research from across 14 countries, of which ten are in the Global South.

In conclusion, musical activities have the potential to foster social inclusion by promoting individual inclusion, group cohesion, and cross-community work. This can be particularly effective in post-conflict environments, where music can help to heal wounds, build bridges, and promote reconciliation. By investigating social music programmes and interventions, we can better understand the power of music in enhancing social inclusion and developing more effective strategies for promoting social cohesion and well-being.

Weight: 554g
Dimension: 162 x 242 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032037196