The role of music in social projects: an introduction to its well-being benefits
Mental Health and Social Inclusion
ISSN: 2042-8308
Article publication date: 1 March 2023
Issue publication date: 11 July 2023
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to provide an introduction to the role of music in social projects.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper introduces the reader to the field of social music projects and why it is important.
Findings
Ongoing conflicts, inequalities and the use of orchestras and choirs for other-than-musical purposes, have all contributed to an increasing interest and adoption of music practices in social projects to support people’s inclusion and well-being, from both service providers and service users.
Research limitations/implications
This paper will look at research into music for social inclusion, with particular attention on benefits related to well-being and methodological innovations in this field.
Practical implications
The research examples will also consider the implications of various social music projects for the support of well-being of diverse groups of people.
Social implications
Different approaches and points of view will be considered in relation to their impact on inclusion and well-being.
Originality/value
Over the past 17 years, the author has developed an interest in the use of music and musical creativity for social purposes. The author has recently edited a book, published by Routledge, on music and social inclusion and feels it is an important topic for the Journal of Mental Health and Social Inclusion.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The two examples draw on Chapters 7 and 15 from Music and Social Inclusion, see Further Reading below. The work of the network 2019–2023 was supported with grants by the UK Arts and Humanities Research Council AH/S003851/1, Royal Society of Edinburgh 62292 and Scottish Funding Council UofG308355/313763 (Odena, PI). Rodríguez’s work in Colombia was supported with a grant from the International Peace Research Association Foundation. In compliance with UKRI requirements a pre-print version of the paper will be available in the University of Glasgow repository after publication.
Citation
Odena, O. (2023), "The role of music in social projects: an introduction to its well-being benefits", Mental Health and Social Inclusion, Vol. 27 No. 3, pp. 210-219. https://doi.org/10.1108/MHSI-01-2023-0013
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2023, Emerald Publishing Limited