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: Hardback
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 connection 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 vital role in shaping our experiences and emotions at every stage of our existence. The author's analysis is grounded in a rich tapestry of qualitative studies and methodologies, complemented by his own personal music autobiography. This multifaceted approach ensures a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the subject matter.

What sets this book apart is its clear and accessible writing style, devoid of jargon that often confounds academic discourse. It serves as a timely application of key concepts from the realm of everyday life sociologies, making it invaluable for scholars and students alike in the fields of sociology of music and culture, as well as anthropology and ethnomusicology. With its broad appeal, it will be of interest to upper-division undergraduate and graduate courses in culture, music, symbolic interaction, social psychology, and qualitative research methods.

In conclusion, this remarkable book offers a profound exploration of the social meanings. It sheds light on the intricate connections between music, self, and society, providing a rich tapestry of insights that will captivate readers from diverse academic backgrounds. By broadening our understanding of music's role in shaping our lives, this book contributes to our collective knowledge and understanding of the human experience.

Weight: 460g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032018515