Music & Human Behaviour

Question 1

List some of the reasons why music is important, according to Daniel Levitin

Answer 1

Core function in our brain; entrain to rhythm; physiological responses; taps into our emotions; improves attention skills; shared neural circuits (e.g. language, movement & cooperation); enhances learning; taps into memories; is a social experience; predictable, structured & organised; non-invasive, safe & motivating

Question 2

According to Becker, what are 3 ways to think of an embodied experience?

Answer 2

The body as a physical structure (emotion & cognition); the body as the site of the first person (unique, inner life); the body as involved with other beings in the world (interactions & experiences)

Question 3

What is Musicking?;

What does it include?

Answer 3

It refers to the act of doing music as a verb rather than as a noun;
Listening, playing, composing, performing; being a spectator; being engaged in a musical experience (not necessarily making music)

Question 4

What do DeNora & Sloboda claim about music & everyday life?

Answer 4

People regard music as a personal tool, to self-regulate; technology of the self; crucial tool in the way people organise their energy levels, mood, memory, attention, distraction, autonomy & identity

Question 5

What does Cheryl Dileo Maranto suggest about the ability of music?

Answer 5

It elicits physiological, psychological & cognitive responses & may evoke imagery & associations