Music and Identity Essay - 994 Words

Music and Identity In this report, I will expand upon what was spoken in the presentation by providing a more in-depth look at each section I talked about. The presentation was divided into six sections: i) What do we mean by identity? ii) Identity in previous historical periods iii) Identity in contemporary culture iv) How the media constructs our identities v) A case study; MTV and the music video vi) Conclusion What do we mean by identity? Identity refers to the way people see themselves--the groups they feel a part of, the significant aspects of themselves that they use to describe themselves to others. Some theorists distinguish between collective identity, social identity, and personal identity. However, they are†¦show more content†¦Identity in contemporary culture In recent years, identity has been open to discussion and reflection. Ones identity has now been subject to change. There are still major cultural categories of identity, for example: • Mother • Father • A teacher • A student • A Protestant Identities however, are still fixed, though the boundaries of identities are ever expanding - though the difference is that they are not pre-defined. We can more than ever choose our own identities. Many theorists see Identity as something that is solid and unchanging - something that is true to your inner-self. Others argue that your identity is something that is constantly changing and adapting, and something that requires commitment and action to sustain. Problems that occur with finding an identity lie in that people seek to be accepted into that new identity and be validated by others. Many young people seek to use music to help themselves be more accepted in the world, so that they can be easily categorisable in the mainstream. Many girls of ages 9 Ââ€" 13 may have an interest in a popular ‘boy band of the time. This is an example of how, though a girls identity could be partly influenced by such a band, ultimately, their music and appeal is limited in scope because after four or five years the band is likely to have split up. The media promotes such a band because it targets girls who are seeking to find an identity and because these yearsShow MoreRelatedMusic and Cultural Identity 1245 Words   |  5 PagesSome may say music is just music; a song is just a song. However, music plays an enormous role in our psychology, because a single song has the ability to bring about many kinds of thoughts and emotions in the listener. Music is subtly one of the main factors in which people identify with certain groups and establish their belonging in society. It shape s people’s perspectives on how the world functions and the roles they play within it. 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