Music in the Course of Life

This book explores the social meanings
meanings provided by music throughout life, examining self, identity, socialization, and the life course. It demonstrates the relationship between the experience of music and the experience of self and is based on qualitative studies and methodologies. It is a timely application of key concepts from the sociology of music and culture for scholars and students.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 148 pages
Publication date: 25 November 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This captivating book delves into the profound and multifaceted realm of how social meanings embedded within music are experienced throughout one's entire life journey. To achieve this insightful exploration, the author takes a deep dive into the concepts of self, identity, socialization, and the very essence of the life course itself.

Traditionally, social scientists have primarily focused their attention on studying music experiences among different generations, one at a time, with a particular emphasis on young audiences. However, this book goes beyond such narrow confines, unveiling the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of appreciation for and utilization of music as a continuous process that extends far beyond adolescence and into adulthood. It vividly demonstrates the intricate relationship between the experience of music and the experience of self, recognizing it as a fundamental aspect of the broader relationship between individuals and society. Music, in essence, completes the circle of life, playing a pivotal role in shaping our experiences and understanding of the world around us.

The author's analysis is grounded in a rich tapestry of qualitative studies and methodologies, complemented by his personal music autobiography. Through these diverse sources, the author offers a clear and accessible account of the subject matter, making it an invaluable resource for scholars and students alike in the fields of sociology of music and culture, as well as related disciplines such as anthropology and ethnomusicology. This book is particularly relevant for upper-division undergraduate and graduate courses in culture, music, symbolic interaction, social psychology, and qualitative research methods. Its comprehensive coverage and insightful perspectives will captivate students and scholars alike, fostering a deeper understanding of the intricate interplay between music, society, and the individual.

Weight: 258g
Dimension: 155 x 233 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032018454