CULTURAL FUNCTIONS OF MUSIC IN SOCIETY


■    Emotional Expression

■    Need for aesthetic expression and experience (i.e. physiological, intellectual)

■    Entertainment

■    Communication

■    Symbolic Representation

            * the symbolizing evident in song texts

            * the symbolic reflection of affective or cultural meaning

            * the reflection of other cultural behavior and values

            * the deep symbolism of universal principles

■    Physical response (i.e. entrainment, gratification, excitement, trance, channeling, crowd behavior)

■    Enforcing conformity to social norms (i.e. praise, protest, social control, rallying to a cause)

■    Validation of social institutions and religious rituals (proper vs. Improper behavior, recitation of myths
                and legends, or doctrine in song

■    Contribution to continuity and stability of culture (expression of shared cultural values)

■    Contribution to the integration of society (i.e. music is a very social phenomenon, inviting,
                encouraging, and sometimes requiring individuals to participate in group activities.
                The potency of music is greatest in the group.