The Personal Meaning of Music Making to Maltese Band Musicians

Abstract

Introduction:

Occupations are known to be imbued with personal, social and cultural meaning. Although there is a growing body of research on the meaning of specific occupations, little attention has been given to the personal meaning of music making as an occupation. This study aimed to explore the personal meaning of engagement in an occupation embedded in a culture by studying music making in Maltese band musicians. Determining the subjective meaning of engagement in an occupation helps to explain why people do what they do and what benefit is derived.

Method:

A qualitative study guided by the principles of grounded theory was conducted with 12 band musicians, using a semi-structured interview. Data were recorded, transcribed and analysed using the principles of grounded theory.

Findings:

Three main categories of meaning emerged: the personal meaning of playing in a band, including spiritual and emotional significance; social and cultural connectedness; and the effect of music making on self-identity and personal health.

Conclusion:

It was evident that there was an important and dynamic connection between the occupation of music making, the individual musician and the social and cultural environment. This interconnection created a feeling of wellbeing and belonging and emphasised the therapeutic value of music making in a band.