Hesmondhalgh, David. 2013. Why Music Matters. West Sussex, UK: Wiley-Blackwell – Read Chapter 2: Feeling and Flourishing
Drew, Eris. August 5, 2020. “More Than a Party” in Never Apart.
What to Post First
Everyone should first post a response to the following questions within the first week of the module:
In Chapter 2, Hesmondhalgh begins constructing his book-length argument about “why music matters” (*). (Note that in so doing, he refers carefully and
precisely to other authors’ arguments that are relevant to his own.) The chapter may not be long, but it is nonetheless challenging. Our primary goal in
discussing it here is to cooperate in order to better and more fully understand it. To get the discussion started, each of you should do the following:
Consider your own experiences with and knowledge of music. Provide your own example of “music’s capacity to enrich our lives via the feelings and
emotions it engenders” (Hesmondhalgh, p. 11) together with an explanation of how your example connects to some aspect of Hesmondhalgh’s argument in
the chapter.
Provide you own example of “the limits of [music’s capacity to enrich our lives via the feelings and emotions it engenders] in modern societies”
(Hesmondhalgh, p. 11) together with an explanation of how your example connects to some aspect of Hesmondhalgh’s argument in the chapter.
Finally:
Can you find any way to relate the magazine article by Drew (on rave parties) to any of the ideas, vocabulary, or arguments of
Sample Solution
Music has been a part of human culture for centuries, and its influence is profound. It can evoke powerful emotions, help us relax and connect with others, and even strengthen our immune systems. Music matters because it helps people express themselves, connect to their inner selves and the world around them in ways that other forms of communication cannot. It can also be used to bring people together through shared experiences — think of how much more powerful a song is when everyone sings along! Additionally, music can help reduce stress levels and improve mental health due to its calming effects on the brain. Scientists have found that listening to certain types
Sample Solution
Music has been a part of human culture for centuries, and its influence is profound. It can evoke powerful emotions, help us relax and connect with others, and even strengthen our immune systems. Music matters because it helps people express themselves, connect to their inner selves and the world around them in ways that other forms of communication cannot. It can also be used to bring people together through shared experiences — think of how much more powerful a song is when everyone sings along! Additionally, music can help reduce stress levels and improve mental health due to its calming effects on the brain. Scientists have found that listening to certain types
