Society for Ethnomusicology

Definition

The Society for Ethnomusicology (SEM) is a professional organization founded in 1951 that aims to promote the study and teaching of ethnomusicology, which is the scholarly exploration of music in its cultural contexts. The SEM serves as a platform for researchers, educators, and practitioners to share knowledge, collaborate on research, and disseminate their findings through publications and conferences, thereby playing a pivotal role in the development of the field over time.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Society for Ethnomusicology was established to provide a unified voice for scholars interested in the intersection of music and culture.
2. The SEM organizes annual meetings that gather ethnomusicologists from around the world to present research, share methodologies, and discuss contemporary issues in the field.
3. Membership in SEM offers access to resources such as funding opportunities, job listings, and a network of professionals dedicated to ethnomusicological research.
4. The SEM publishes several publications, including the Journal of Ethnomusicology, which is a key outlet for scholarship in this area.
5. The organization has expanded its focus to include diverse musical traditions and contemporary practices from all over the globe, reflecting changes in the field.

Review Questions

• How has the Society for Ethnomusicology contributed to the advancement of ethnomusicology as a discipline?
  • The Society for Ethnomusicology has significantly advanced ethnomusicology by fostering a collaborative environment for researchers through conferences and publications. By organizing annual meetings, it provides a platform for scholars to present their findings, share methodologies, and engage in discussions about pressing issues. Additionally, the SEM's focus on diverse musical traditions has helped broaden the scope of ethnomusicological studies and encourages inclusivity in research.
• What role does fieldwork play within the Society for Ethnomusicology's framework for research?
  • Fieldwork is central to the Society for Ethnomusicology’s approach to research, as it allows scholars to immerse themselves in the musical practices and cultural contexts they study. The SEM encourages its members to engage directly with communities to gain firsthand insights into musical traditions. This hands-on approach enriches understanding and highlights the importance of context when analyzing music, making fieldwork an essential component of ethnomusicological scholarship.
• Evaluate how the publications produced by the Society for Ethnomusicology have impacted the discourse within ethnomusicology.
  • The publications produced by the Society for Ethnomusicology have had a profound impact on discourse within ethnomusicology by providing a rigorous platform for new research findings and theoretical advancements. Through journals like the Journal of Ethnomusicology, scholars can disseminate their work widely, encouraging dialogue and debate among peers. This exchange not only enhances academic rigor but also allows for diverse perspectives on music's role in culture to be shared, thereby shaping future directions in ethnomusicological inquiry.

Related terms

Ethnomusicology: The study of music in its social and cultural contexts, combining aspects of anthropology and musicology.

Fieldwork: The practice of conducting research in the natural environment of the subjects being studied, often involving direct engagement with communities.

Journal of Ethnomusicology: A peer-reviewed academic journal published by the Society for Ethnomusicology, featuring research articles, reviews, and discussions related to the field.