The Routledge Companion to Interdisciplinary Studies in Singing, Volume III: Wellbeing

The Routledge Companion to Interdisciplinary Studies in Singing, Volume III: Wellbeing explores the connections between singing and health, promoting the power of singing in confronting health challenges across the lifespan. It assesses the current state of knowledge and presents opportunities for discovery in three parts: singing and health, singing and cultural understanding, and singing and intergenerational understanding.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 486 pages
Publication date: 01 February 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The Routledge Companion to Interdisciplinary Studies in Singing, Volume III: Wellbeing delves into the intricate connections between singing and health, highlighting the remarkable power of singing to address health challenges throughout an individual's lifespan. These chapters form a comprehensive interdisciplinary research agenda, advancing the theoretical, empirical, and applied contributions of singing while incorporating methodologies that embrace the diverse perspectives and cultures of individuals. Contributors assess the current state of knowledge in three distinct sections: Singing and Health, Singing and Cultural Understanding, and Singing and Intergenerational Understanding.

In 2009, the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada initiated a groundbreaking seven-year major collaborative research initiative called Advancing Interdisciplinary Research in Singing (AIRS). This initiative brought together global researchers from a diverse range of disciplines, united by a common passion for exploring the multifaceted aspects of singing. Together, they addressed three critical questions: How does singing develop in every human being? How should singing be taught and utilized as a teaching tool? How does singing impact wellbeing?

Over three volumes, The Routledge Companion to Interdisciplinary Studies in Singing meticulously consolidates the findings of these three inquiries, providing a comprehensive and up-to-date understanding of the current state of theory and research in the field. Volume III: Wellbeing, in particular, focuses on the third question and explores the profound health benefits associated with singing.

Singing has been shown to have a multitude of positive effects on wellbeing. It can reduce stress, alleviate anxiety, improve mood, enhance cognitive function, strengthen social connections, and promote physical health. Research has demonstrated that singing can improve respiratory function, reduce blood pressure, enhance muscle strength and flexibility, and even improve sleep quality. Moreover, singing can be a form of self-expression and empowerment, allowing individuals to express their emotions, connect with others, and find a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

The chapters in Volume III: Wellbeing provide a rich tapestry of insights and perspectives on the health benefits of singing. Contributors from various disciplines, including music therapy, psychology, nursing, and public health, offer their expertise and research findings to shed light on the ways in which singing can enhance overall well-being. They explore the therapeutic applications of singing in various settings, such as hospitals, schools, and community centers, and discuss the potential for singing to be integrated into healthcare practices and policies.

Furthermore, the chapters in Volume III: Wellbeing highlight the cultural and societal significance of singing. Singing is deeply embedded in human culture and has been used for centuries to express emotions, convey messages, and preserve traditions. It can serve as a means of cultural preservation, promoting intergenerational understanding and social cohesion. Singing can also be a powerful tool for social change, as it has been used to raise awareness about social issues, advocate for human rights, and promote social justice.

In conclusion, The Routledge Companion to Interdisciplinary Studies in Singing, Volume III: Wellbeing is a groundbreaking resource that explores the profound connections between singing and health. It provides a comprehensive interdisciplinary research agenda, advancing the theoretical, empirical, and applied contributions of singing while embracing the diverse perspectives and cultures of individuals. Through its examination of the health benefits of singing, the volume highlights the remarkable power of singing to address health challenges throughout an individual's lifespan. This resource will be invaluable to researchers, practitioners, and anyone interested in the field of singing and its impact on well-being.

Weight: 882g
Dimension: 256 x 178 x 34 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032171456