Thursday, September 4, 2014

Globalization's Personal Musical Influence

Globalization doesn't simply come about by business or by massive corporate expansion. It can happen right before our eyes (or ears) by simply allowing sound waves to reach the ear drum.  Globalization and the unification of countries can occur easily through music.  Technology has certainly increased the speed of this with such significance that styles from other countries are being integrated to form amazing music.

My iPod is full of music ranging from The Beatles to classical to folk rock. If we didn't have the technology that we have now and the knowledge of other countries’ cultures and styles, the world wouldn't have such diverse music styles and my music would be particularly boring.  When the world wasn't as accessible and communication to other countries was limited, ideas and musical styles didn't expand as quickly. There were only a few styles of music in western civilization (i.e. classical and opera) and so diversity wasn't as prominent. When communication and transportation started to open up, music styles combined.  Eastern styles of music are now being combined with rock, which allows for the common listener to become familiar with some techniques and styles of –for example – Indian or Arabian instrumental and vocal music. This globalization of music brings people together and can spread ideas. I've had the opportunity to see this up front in wards and communities by being a performer and having the opportunity to play so many unique styles.

Not only is music from different parts of the world fun to listen to and to mesh together, but it has also helped my technique as a musician.  As a violinist, I've had the opportunity to play jazz, classical, bluegrass, and rock.  All of these styles require different techniques in bow strokes, articulation, syncopation, tone, etc.  I've been able to become a better and more well-rounded violinist because of the styles that have spread through globalization. Globalization, in this sense, has opened doors for improvement and has presented more options stylistically of what I can play.


Even in the LDS church we sing hymns and other joyous music to allow the spirit to settle on a congregation and to unify them through that spirit. It unites people as a ward and brings them closer to Heavenly Father, not only in Utah or America but in congregations throughout the world.  It’s an amazing thing to see when the music you play can influence so many people. Globalization of music has allowed me to improve and feel the spirit. It has also allowed me to have significance in other people’s lives and to open their hearts and minds to the gospel.  There are many aspects of globalization that have influenced me negatively, but this is one that has been enjoyable and exciting.

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