Ethnomusicology Flashcards, test questions and answers

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What is Ethnomusicology?

Ethnomusicology is an interdisciplinary field of study that focuses on the music, musical instruments and culture of a particular region or ethnic group. It is an umbrella term that encompasses both musicology and anthropology. Ethnomusicologists study how music is used in a variety of social contexts and why it is important to people from different cultures. They also explore how certain musical practices and beliefs shape identity for individuals and societies.The main objectives of ethnomusicology are to provide insight into the cultural values, beliefs, practices, customs, traditions and meanings associated with music within different cultural settings. Through the analysis of various types of musical instruments as well as their acoustic structure, melody lines, lyrics and rhythmic patterns, ethnomusicologists can learn about a culture’s history, values and thought processes. In addition to this they may also take an interest in recording performances as well as interviews with musicians or other members of the community who may have valuable information related to the topic being studied. One example would be studying traditional Irish folk songs which provide insight into Irish culture before being influenced by Western classical forms such as opera or symphony orchestral pieces. Through studying these traditional styles ethnomusicologists are able to gain understanding about Irish life during a certain period in time that would not be available through written documentation alone. Overall ethnomusicology provides us with unique insight into cultures around the world through examining how music is used within them as well as its importance within society itself.