University musicologists research everyday questions about the science and anthropology behind why different cultures and generations make unique forms of music.
Musicology examines ancient and modern cultures, as well as the entire range of musical form, style, genre and tradition. Using history, anthropology, gender and philosophy, it studies the affect on music as an art form.
‘In a nutshell, [music] articulates the inexpressible and puts into sounds the most essential aspects of culture,’ associate professor Matthew Dirst said.
However, musicology tends to stay a bit under the radar. Dirst said that like many academic researchers, musicologists work for a specialized academic audience and occasionally speak to the press about new developments.
Sociology professor Joseph Kotarba contributes to musicology through his examination of how people of different generations approach music and use it to define themselves.
Kotarba said the 21st century audience does not fit into ‘traditional categories,’ because they are more aware of new genres and different styles, and in turn are more open-minded and susceptible to unfamiliar music.
‘Old timers are listening to rap and young people are diving into blues,’ Kotarba said.
Kotarba also found the Internet acts as the main source of information on the hottest bands for people who book music.
He said the new medium also popularized the ‘do it yourself ethic’ for independent bands, who commonly go on the road, record music and organize their own tours.
Kotarba also commented that twenty-first century listeners distribute music on jump drives and box sets, far more easily than their ancestors.
‘People like your dad ‘hellip; could take music that you may give him and tell his business partners to check it out,’ Kotarba said. ‘The music industry is geared in such a way that it’s more convenient with things like CD burning, box sets’hellip; It’s come a long way.’
