Ethnomusicology

Ethnomusicology is the study of music within its cultural context, exploring how music reflects and shapes social identities, traditions, and values. It examines not just the musical notes, but also the practices, beliefs, and emotions associated with music across different cultures. In terms of aesthetics, it investigates what makes music beautiful or meaningful to people, how sounds are perceived, and the role of music in expressing cultural heritage. Ethnomusicologists often engage in fieldwork, immersing themselves in diverse musical environments to gain deeper insights into the relationships between music and society.