Communication and Music

Can music communicate? What are the implications of thinking of music as a form of human communication? How does our everyday talk intersect with music and change what we hear? This book presents a communication perspective on music, focusing on issues such as:

-- how music communicates emotional information
-- the role of communication in coordination between musicians
-- how our identities with important social and cultural groups are influenced by music
-- how music influences our personal relationships
-- connections between musical and nonverbal behavior
-- how new technologies, film, and music video connect music to other forms of communication

The book is written in an accessible style, and surveys research in psychology, sociology, musicology and communication science. Many links to audio and video examples of the concepts and artists being discussed are included. Each chapter includes a summary and keywords, and the book includes an "Additional Resources" list with recommended books and films. There is also an extensive list of academic references and a glossary for those seeking additional details. The book is suitable for anybody interested in how music influences our daily communication, and would be appropriate for an introductory undergraduate class in communication and music. No technical musical knowledge is required. Instructor resources are available by contacting the author.