1
|
Parada-Cabaleiro E, Batliner A, Zentner M, Schedl M. Exploring emotions in Bach chorales: a multi-modal perceptual and data-driven study. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2023; 10:230574. [PMID: 38126059 PMCID: PMC10731325 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.230574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
The relationship between music and emotion has been addressed within several disciplines, from more historico-philosophical and anthropological ones, such as musicology and ethnomusicology, to others that are traditionally more empirical and technological, such as psychology and computer science. Yet, understanding the link between music and emotion is limited by the scarce interconnections between these disciplines. Trying to narrow this gap, this data-driven exploratory study aims at assessing the relationship between linguistic, symbolic and acoustic features-extracted from lyrics, music notation and audio recordings-and perception of emotion. Employing a listening experiment, statistical analysis and unsupervised machine learning, we investigate how a data-driven multi-modal approach can be used to explore the emotions conveyed by eight Bach chorales. Through a feature selection strategy based on a set of more than 300 Bach chorales and a transdisciplinary methodology integrating approaches from psychology, musicology and computer science, we aim to initiate an efficient dialogue between disciplines, able to promote a more integrative and holistic understanding of emotions in music.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emilia Parada-Cabaleiro
- Institute of Computational Perception, Johannes Kepler University Linz, Linz, Austria
- Human-Centered AI Group, AI Laboratory, Linz Institute of Technology (LIT), Linz, Austria
- Department of Music Pedagogy, Nuremberg University of Music, Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Anton Batliner
- Chair of Embedded Intelligence for Health Care and Wellbeing, University of Augsburg, Augsburg, Germany
| | - Marcel Zentner
- Department of Psychology, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Markus Schedl
- Institute of Computational Perception, Johannes Kepler University Linz, Linz, Austria
- Human-Centered AI Group, AI Laboratory, Linz Institute of Technology (LIT), Linz, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Campo A, Michałko A, Van Kerrebroeck B, Stajic B, Pokric M, Leman M. The assessment of presence and performance in an AR environment for motor imitation learning: A case-study on violinists. COMPUTERS IN HUMAN BEHAVIOR 2023; 146:107810. [PMID: 37663430 PMCID: PMC10305781 DOI: 10.1016/j.chb.2023.107810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
The acquisition of advanced gestures is a challenge in various domains of proficient sensorimotor performance. For example, orchestral violinists must move in sync with the lead violinist's gestures. To help train these gestures, an educational music play-back system was developed using a HoloLens 2 simulated AR environment and an avatar representation of the lead violinist. This study aimed to investigate the impact of using a 2D or 3D representation of the lead violinist's avatar on students' learning experience in the AR environment. To assess the learning outcome, the study employed a longitudinal experiment design, in which eleven participants practiced two pieces of music in four trials, evenly spaced over a month. Participants were asked to mimic the avatar's gestures as closely as possible when it came to using the bow, including bowing, articulations, and dynamics. The study compared the similarities between the avatar's gestures and those of the participants at the biomechanical level, using motion capture measurements, as well as the smoothness of the participants' movements. Additionally, presence and perceived difficulty were assessed using questionnaires. The results suggest that using a 3D representation of the avatar leads to better gesture resemblance and a higher experience of presence compared to a 2D representation. The 2D representation, however, showed a learning effect, but this was not observed in the 3D condition. The findings suggest that the 3D condition benefits from stereoscopic information that enhances spatial cognition, making it more effective in relation to sensorimotor performance. Overall, the 3D condition had a greater impact on performance than on learning. This work concludes with recommendations for future efforts directed towards AR-based advanced gesture training to address the challenges related to measurement methodology and participants' feedback on the AR application.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adriaan Campo
- Department of Art, Music and Theatre Sciences, Faculty of Arts and Philosophy, Institute for Psychoacoustics and Electronic Music (IPEM), Ghent University, Miriam Makebaplein 1, B-9000, Gent België, Belgium
| | - Aleksandra Michałko
- Department of Art, Music and Theatre Sciences, Faculty of Arts and Philosophy, Institute for Psychoacoustics and Electronic Music (IPEM), Ghent University, Miriam Makebaplein 1, B-9000, Gent België, Belgium
| | - Bavo Van Kerrebroeck
- Department of Art, Music and Theatre Sciences, Faculty of Arts and Philosophy, Institute for Psychoacoustics and Electronic Music (IPEM), Ghent University, Miriam Makebaplein 1, B-9000, Gent België, Belgium
| | | | | | - Marc Leman
- Department of Art, Music and Theatre Sciences, Faculty of Arts and Philosophy, Institute for Psychoacoustics and Electronic Music (IPEM), Ghent University, Miriam Makebaplein 1, B-9000, Gent België, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Shiba K, Cowden RG, Gonzalez N, Ransome Y, Nakagomi A, Chen Y, Lee MT, VanderWeele TJ, Fancourt D. Associations of online religious participation during COVID-19 lockdown with subsequent health and well-being among UK adults. Psychol Med 2023; 53:3887-3896. [PMID: 35189993 PMCID: PMC10317791 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291722000551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Revised: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In-person religious service attendance has been linked to favorable health and well-being outcomes. However, little research has examined whether online religious participation improves these outcomes, especially when in-person attendance is suspended. METHODS Using longitudinal data of 8951 UK adults, this study prospectively examined the association between frequency of online religious participation during the stringent lockdown in the UK (23 March -13 May 2020) and 21 indicators of psychological well-being, social well-being, pro-social/altruistic behaviors, psychological distress, and health behaviors. All analyses adjusted for baseline socio-demographic characteristics, pre-pandemic in-person religious service attendance, and prior values of the outcome variables whenever data were available. Bonferroni correction was used to correct for multiple testing. RESULTS Individuals with online religious participation of ≥1/week (v. those with no participation at all) during the lockdown had a lower prevalence of thoughts of self-harm in week 20 (odds ratio 0.24; 95% CI 0.09-0.62). Online religious participation of <1/week (v. no participation) was associated with higher life satisfaction (standardized β = 0.25; 0.11-0.39) and happiness (standardized β = 0.25; 0.08-0.42). However, there was little evidence for the associations between online religious participation and all other outcomes (e.g. depressive symptoms and anxiety). CONCLUSIONS There was evidence that online religious participation during the lockdown was associated with some subsequent health and well-being outcomes. Future studies should examine mechanisms underlying the inconsistent results for online v. in-person religious service attendance and also use data from non-pandemic situations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Koichiro Shiba
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Human Flourishing Program, Institute for Quantitative Social Science, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Richard G. Cowden
- Human Flourishing Program, Institute for Quantitative Social Science, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | | | - Yusuf Ransome
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Yale University School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Atsushi Nakagomi
- Department of Social Preventive Medical Sciences, Center for Preventive Medical Sciences, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Ying Chen
- Human Flourishing Program, Institute for Quantitative Social Science, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Matthew T. Lee
- Human Flourishing Program, Institute for Quantitative Social Science, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Tyler J. VanderWeele
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Human Flourishing Program, Institute for Quantitative Social Science, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Biostatistics, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Daisy Fancourt
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Theorell T, Kowalski J, Theorell AML, Horwitz EB. Choir Singers Without Rehearsals and Concerts? A Questionnaire Study on Perceived Losses From Restricting Choral Singing During the Covid-19 Pandemic. J Voice 2023; 37:146.e19-146.e27. [PMID: 33288380 DOI: 10.1016/j.jvoice.2020.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2020] [Revised: 11/14/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Choir singing is an activity that engages individuals all over the world with a broad demographic representation. Both qualitative and quantitative studies have examined the benefits of the activity but very few have examined the effects when someone loses access to it and stops singing. OBJECTIVES Examining the governmental and organisational responses precipitated by the COVID-19 pandemic, we asked what happens when a choir singer loses all of their routines associated with regular participation in choir singing. MATERIALS AND METHODS One national choir organization in Sweden (n = 3163) and one in Norway (n = 1881) were approached with a short survey. This comprised questions relating to the issue "what do you as a choir singer misses the most?" Each participant was asked to rate the importance of a number of elements that pertain to the experience of choir singing. RESULTS The social aspect of singing emerged as having the strongest weight in terms of perceived loss that is, it was the element that the participants missed the most. Professional singers report that they miss the aesthetic experiences, flow, and all the physical aspects (physical training, voice training, and breathing training) to a greater degree as compared to reports from the amateurs. The importance of aesthetic experiences and physical components appeared to rise with increasing number of years that an individual had engaged with choir singing. CONCLUSION In the Scandinavian setting, the social aspect has a stronger weight than the other components and this seemed to be more significant in Norway compared to Sweden.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Töres Theorell
- Department of Music, Pedagogy and Society, Royal College of Music, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of International Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jan Kowalski
- Senior Consultant in Biostatistics, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Eva Bojner Horwitz
- Department of Music, Pedagogy and Society, Royal College of Music, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Center for Social Sustainability, Institution of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Sweden.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Öhlund Wistbacka G, Shen W, Brunskog J. Virtual reality head-mounted displays affect sidetone perception. JASA EXPRESS LETTERS 2022; 2:105202. [PMID: 36319214 DOI: 10.1121/10.0014605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate whether head-mounted displays (HMDs) change the sidetone to an auditory perceivable extent. Impulse responses (IRs) were recorded using a dummy head wearing a HMD (IRtest) and compared to IRs measured without HMD (IRref). Ten naive listeners were tested on their ability to discriminate between the IRtest and IRref using convolved speech signals. The spectral analysis showed that the HMDs decreased the spectral energy of the sidetone around 2000-4500 Hz. Most listeners were able to discriminate between the IRs. It is concluded that HMDs change the sidetone to a small but perceivable extent.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Greta Öhlund Wistbacka
- Acoustic Technology, Department of Electrical and Photonics Engineering, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby DK-2800, Denmark , ,
| | - Weihan Shen
- Acoustic Technology, Department of Electrical and Photonics Engineering, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby DK-2800, Denmark , ,
| | - Jonas Brunskog
- Acoustic Technology, Department of Electrical and Photonics Engineering, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby DK-2800, Denmark , ,
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Bind RH, Estevao C, Fancourt D, Hazelgrove K, Sawyer K, Rebecchini L, Miller C, Dazzan P, Sevdalis N, Woods A, Crane N, Manoharan M, Burton A, Dye H, Osborn T, Greenwood L, Bakolis I, Lopez MB, Davis R, Perkins R, Pariante CM. Online singing interventions for postnatal depression in times of social isolation: a feasibility study protocol for the SHAPER-PNDO single-arm trial. Pilot Feasibility Stud 2022; 8:148. [PMID: 35851430 PMCID: PMC9289358 DOI: 10.1186/s40814-022-01112-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Postnatal depression (PND) affects 13% of new mothers, with numbers rising during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite this prevalence, many women have difficulty with or hesitancy towards accessing pharmacological and/or psychological interventions. Group-based mother-baby activities, however, have a good uptake, with singing improving maternal mental health and the mother-infant relationship. The recent lockdowns highlight the importance of adapting activities to an online platform that is wide-reaching and accessible. AIMS The SHAPER-PNDO study will primarily analyse the feasibility of a 6-week online singing intervention, Melodies for Mums (M4M), for mothers with PND who are experiencing barriers to treatment. The secondary aim of the SHAPER-PNDO study will be to analyse the clinical efficacy of the 6-week M4M intervention for symptoms of postnatal depression. METHODS A total of 120 mothers and their babies will be recruited for this single-arm study. All dyads will attend 6 weekly online singing sessions, facilitated by Breathe Arts Health Research. Assessments will be conducted on Zoom at baseline and week 6, with follow-ups at weeks 16 and 32, and will contain interviews for demographics, mental health, and social circumstances, and biological samples will be taken for stress markers. Qualitative interviews will be undertaken to understand the experiences of women attending the sessions and the facilitators delivering them. Finally, data will be collected on recruitment, study uptake and attendance of the programme, participant retention, and acceptability of the intervention. DISCUSSION The SHAPER-PNDO study will focus on the feasibility, alongside the clinical efficacy, of an online delivery of M4M, available to all mothers with PND. We hope to provide a more accessible, effective treatment option for mothers with PND that can be available both during and outside of the pandemic for mothers who would otherwise struggle to attend in-person sessions, as well as to prepare for a subsequent hybrid RCT. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04857593 . Registered retrospectively on 22 April 2021. The first participants were recruited on 27 January 2021, and the trial is ongoing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca H Bind
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, 5 Cutcombe Rd, London, SE5 9RT, UK.
| | - Carolina Estevao
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, 5 Cutcombe Rd, London, SE5 9RT, UK
| | - Daisy Fancourt
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Katie Hazelgrove
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, 5 Cutcombe Rd, London, SE5 9RT, UK
| | - Kristi Sawyer
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, 5 Cutcombe Rd, London, SE5 9RT, UK
| | - Lavinia Rebecchini
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, 5 Cutcombe Rd, London, SE5 9RT, UK
| | - Celeste Miller
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, 5 Cutcombe Rd, London, SE5 9RT, UK
| | - Paola Dazzan
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, 5 Cutcombe Rd, London, SE5 9RT, UK
| | - Nick Sevdalis
- Centre for Implementation Science, Health Service and Population Research Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, 16 De Crespigny Park, London, SE5 8AB, UK
| | - Anthony Woods
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, 5 Cutcombe Rd, London, SE5 9RT, UK
| | - Nikki Crane
- Culture Team, King's College London, Somerset House East Wing, Strand, WC2R 2LS, UK
| | - Manonmani Manoharan
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, Denmark Hill, London, SE5 8AZ, UK
| | - Alexandra Burton
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Hannah Dye
- Breathe Arts Health Research, The Clarence Centre, 6 St George's Circus, London, SE1 6FE, UK
| | - Tim Osborn
- Breathe Arts Health Research, The Clarence Centre, 6 St George's Circus, London, SE1 6FE, UK
| | - Lorna Greenwood
- Breathe Arts Health Research, The Clarence Centre, 6 St George's Circus, London, SE1 6FE, UK
| | - Ioannis Bakolis
- Centre for Implementation Science, Health Service and Population Research Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, 16 De Crespigny Park, London, SE5 8AB, UK
| | - Maria Baldellou Lopez
- Centre for Implementation Science, Health Service and Population Research Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, 16 De Crespigny Park, London, SE5 8AB, UK
| | - Rachel Davis
- Centre for Implementation Science, Health Service and Population Research Department, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, 16 De Crespigny Park, London, SE5 8AB, UK
| | - Rosie Perkins
- Centre for Performance Science, Royal College of Music, London, UK
- Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Carmine M Pariante
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, 5 Cutcombe Rd, London, SE5 9RT, UK
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Grebosz-Haring K, Schuchter-Wiegand AK, Feneberg AC, Skoluda N, Nater UM, Schütz S, Thun-Hohenstein L. The Psychological and Biological Impact of "In-Person" vs. "Virtual" Choir Singing in Children and Adolescents: A Pilot Study Before and After the Acute Phase of the COVID-19 Outbreak in Austria. Front Psychol 2022; 12:773227. [PMID: 35058843 PMCID: PMC8764148 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.773227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Psychobiological responses to music have been examined previously in various naturalistic settings in adults. Choir singing seems to be associated with positive psychobiological outcomes in adults. However, evidence on the effectiveness of singing in children and adolescents is sparse. The COVID-19 outbreak is significantly affecting society now and in the future, including how individuals engage with music. The COVID-19 pandemic is occurring at a time when virtual participation in musical experiences such as singing in a virtual choir has become more prevalent. However, it remains unclear whether virtual singing leads to different responses in comparison with in-person singing. We evaluated the psychobiological effects of in-person choral singing (7 weeks, from January to March 2020, before the COVID-19 outbreak) in comparison with the effects of virtual choral singing (7 weeks, from May to July 2020, after schools partly re-opened in Austria) in a naturalistic pilot within-subject study. A group of children and young adolescents (N = 5, age range 10-13, female = 2) from a school in Salzburg, Austria were recruited to take part in the study. Subjective measures (momentary mood, stress) were taken pre- and post-singing sessions once a week. Additionally, salivary biomarkers (cortisol and alpha-amylase) and quantity of social contacts were assessed pre- and post-singing sessions every second week. Psychological stability, self-esteem, emotional competences, and chronic stress levels were measured at the beginning of in-person singing as well as at the beginning and the end of the virtual singing. We observed a positive impact on mood after both in-person and virtual singing. Over time, in-person singing showed a pre-post decrease in salivary cortisol, while virtual singing showed a moderate increase. Moreover, a greater reduction in stress, positive change in calmness, and higher values of social contacts could be observed for the in-person setting compared to the virtual one. In addition, we observed positive changes in psychological stability, maladaptive emotional competences, chronic stress levels, hair cortisol, self-contingency and quality of life. Our preliminary findings suggest that group singing may provide benefits for children and adolescents. In-person singing in particular seems to have a stronger psychobiological effect.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Grebosz-Haring
- Department of Musicology and Dance Studies, Faculty of Art History, Musicology and Dance Studies, Paris Lodron University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
- Programme Area (Inter)Mediation. Music – Mediation – Context, Interuniversity Institution Knowledge and the Arts, Paris Lodron University Salzburg, University Mozarteum Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Anna K. Schuchter-Wiegand
- Department of Musicology and Dance Studies, Faculty of Art History, Musicology and Dance Studies, Paris Lodron University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
- Programme Area (Inter)Mediation. Music – Mediation – Context, Interuniversity Institution Knowledge and the Arts, Paris Lodron University Salzburg, University Mozarteum Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Anja C. Feneberg
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- University Research Platform ‘The Stress of Life – Processes and Mechanisms Underlying Everyday Life Stress’, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Nadine Skoluda
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- University Research Platform ‘The Stress of Life – Processes and Mechanisms Underlying Everyday Life Stress’, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Urs M. Nater
- Department of Clinical and Health Psychology, Faculty of Psychology, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- University Research Platform ‘The Stress of Life – Processes and Mechanisms Underlying Everyday Life Stress’, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Sebastian Schütz
- Department of Mathematics, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Paris Lodron University Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Leonhard Thun-Hohenstein
- University Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Christian-Doppler-Clinik, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Fraser T, Crooke AHD, Davidson JW. "Music Has No Borders": An Exploratory Study of Audience Engagement With YouTube Music Broadcasts During COVID-19 Lockdown, 2020. Front Psychol 2021; 12:643893. [PMID: 34305714 PMCID: PMC8295728 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.643893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
This exploratory study engages with eight case studies of music performances broadcast online to investigate the role of music in facilitating social cohesion, intercultural understanding and community resilience during a time of social distancing and concomitant heightened racial tensions. Using an online ethnographic approach and thematic analysis of video comments, the nature of audience engagement with music performances broadcast via YouTube during COVID-19 lockdown of 2020 is explored through the lens of ritual engagement with media events and models of social capital. The eight case studies featured virtual choirs, orchestras and music collaborations of various genres, including classical, pop and fusion styles drawing from European, Asia Minor, South African, West African, North African, Arabic, South Asian, and East Asian cultural origins. Five overarching themes resulted from thematic analysis of video comments, including Interaction, Unity, Resilience, Identity, and Emotion. The paper contributes important theorisation that ritual engagement and social learning fosters intercultural understanding through engaging with music both cognitively and emotionally, which can in turn shape both individual and collective identity. Online platforms provide scope for both bonding and bridging opportunities. Community resilience is supported through the sharing of knowledge, sustaining music practice during social distancing, as well as emotional support shared among audience participants, with potential wellbeing outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Trisnasari Fraser
- Faculty of Fine Arts and Music, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Morgan-Ellis EM. "Like Pieces in a Puzzle": Online Sacred Harp Singing During the COVID-19 Pandemic. Front Psychol 2021; 12:627038. [PMID: 33815212 PMCID: PMC8017137 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.627038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Sacred Harp singers the world over gather weekly to sing out of The Sacred Harp, a collection of shape-note songs first published in 1844. Their tradition is highly ritualized, and it plays an important role in the lives of many participants. Following the implementation of lockdown protocols to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, groups of Sacred Harp singers quickly and independently devised a variety of means by which to sing together online using Zoom (“zinging”), Jamulus (“jamzinging”), and Facebook Live (“stringing”). The rapidity and creativity with which Sacred Harp singers developed ways to sustain their activities attests to the strength and significance of this community of practice, and in this article I describe each modality and provide an account of how it came to be developed and widely used. As a participant-observer, I completed extensive fieldwork across these digital sites and conducted semi-structured interviews with 22 other singers. I found that online singing practices have reshaped the Sacred Harp community. Many singers who did not previously have the opportunity to participate now have access, while others have lost access due to technological barriers or lack of interest in online activities. At the same time, geographical barriers have disintegrated, and singing organizers must make an effort to maintain local identity. A stable community of singers has emerged in the digital realm, but it is by no means identical to the community that predated the pandemic. I also identify the ways in which online singing has proven meaningful to participants by providing continuity in their personal and communal practice. Specifically, online singing allows participants to access and celebrate their collective memories of the Sacred Harp community, carry out significant rituals, and continue to grow as singers. While no single modality replicates the complete Sacred Harp singing experience, together they function “like pieces in a puzzle” (as one singer put it), allowing individual participants to access many of the elements of Sacred Harp singing that are most meaningful to them.
Collapse
|
10
|
Daffern H, Balmer K, Brereton J. Singing Together, Yet Apart: The Experience of UK Choir Members and Facilitators During the Covid-19 Pandemic. Front Psychol 2021; 12:624474. [PMID: 33679542 PMCID: PMC7930073 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.624474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2020] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The Covid-19 induced United Kingdom-wide lockdown in 2020 saw choirs face a unique situation of trying to continue without being able to meet in-person. Live networked simultaneous music-making for large groups of singers is not possible, so other "virtual choir" activities were explored. A cross sectional online survey of 3948 choir members and facilitators from across the United Kingdom was conducted, with qualitative analysis of open text questions, to investigate which virtual choir solutions have been employed, how choir members and facilitators experience these in comparison to an "in-person" choir, and whether the limitations and opportunities of virtual choir solutions shed light on the value of the experience of group singing as a whole. Three virtual choir models were employed: Multi-track, whereby individuals record a solo which is mixed into a choral soundtrack; Live streamed, where individuals take part in sessions streamed live over social media; Live tele-conferencing, for spoken interaction and/or singing using tele-conferencing software. Six themes were identified in the open text responses: Participation Practicalities, encompassing reactions to logistics of virtual models; Choir Continuity, reflecting the responsibility felt to maintain choir activities somehow; Wellbeing, with lockdown highlighting to many the importance of in-person choirs to their sense of wellbeing; Social Aspects, reflecting a sense of community and social identity; Musical Elements, whereby the value of musical experience shifted with the virtual models; Co-creation through Singing, with an overwhelming sense of loss of the embodied experience of singing together in real-time, which is unattainable from existing virtual choir models. The experiences, activities and reflections of choir singers during lockdown present a unique perspective to understand what makes group singing a meaningful experience for many. Co-creation through Singing needs further investigation to understand the impact of its absence on virtual choirs being able re-create the benefits of in-person choirs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Helena Daffern
- AudioLab, Department of Electronic Engineering, York Centre for Singing Science, University of York, York, United Kingdom
| | - Kelly Balmer
- AudioLab, Department of Electronic Engineering, York Centre for Singing Science, University of York, York, United Kingdom
| | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Rhythmic Chanting and Mystical States across Traditions. Brain Sci 2021; 11:brainsci11010101. [PMID: 33451163 PMCID: PMC7828722 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11010101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2020] [Revised: 12/31/2020] [Accepted: 01/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Chanting is a form of rhythmic, repetitive vocalization practiced in a wide range of cultures. It is used in spiritual practice to strengthen community, heal illness, and overcome psychological and emotional difficulties. In many traditions, chanting is used to induce mystical states, an altered state of consciousness characterised by a profound sense of peace. Despite the global prevalence of chanting, its psychological effects are poorly understood. This investigation examined the psychological and contextual factors associated with mystical states during chanting. Data were analyzed from 464 participants across 33 countries who regularly engaged in chanting. Results showed that 60% of participants experienced mystical states during chanting. Absorption, altruism, and religiosity were higher among people who reported mystical states while chanting compared to those who did not report mystical states. There was no difference in mystical experience scores between vocal, silent, group or individual chanting and no difference in the prevalence of mystical states across chanting traditions. However, an analysis of subscales suggested that mystical experiences were especially characterised by positive mood and feelings of ineffability. The research sheds new light on factors that impact upon chanting experiences. A framework for understanding mystical states during chanting is proposed.
Collapse
|
12
|
Philip KE, Lewis A, Jeffery E, Buttery S, Cave P, Cristiano D, Lound A, Taylor K, Man WDC, Fancourt D, Polkey MI, Hopkinson NS. Moving singing for lung health online in response to COVID-19: experience from a randomised controlled trial. BMJ Open Respir Res 2020; 7:e000737. [PMID: 33239406 PMCID: PMC7689537 DOI: 10.1136/bmjresp-2020-000737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Revised: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Singing for lung health (SLH) is a popular arts-in-health activity for people with long-term respiratory conditions. Participants report biopsychosocial benefits, however, research on impact is limited. The 'SLH: Improving Experiences of Lung Disease trial', a randomised controlled, single (assessor) blind, trial of 12 weeks SLH versus usual care for people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (n=120) was setup to help to address this. The first group (n=18, nine singing and nine controls) started face-to-face (five sessions) before changing to online delivery (seven sessions) due to COVID-19-related physical distancing measures. As such, the experience of this group is here reported as a pilot study to inform further research in this area. METHODS We conducted semistructured interviews and thematic analysis regarding barriers, facilitators and key considerations for transitioning from face-to-face to online delivery. Pilot quantitative outcomes include attendance, premeasures and postmeasures of quality of life and disease impact (Short Form 36 Health Survey, COPD Assessment Test score), breathlessness (Medical Research Council breathlessness scale, Dyspnoea-12), depression (Patient Health Questionnaire-9, PHQ-9), anxiety (Generalised Anxiety Disorder-7), balance confidence (Activity specific Balance Confidence, ABC scale) and physical activity (clinical visit PROactive physical activity in COPD tool, combining subjective rating and actigraphy). RESULTS Attendance was 69% overall, (90% of the face-to-face sessions, 53% online sessions). Analysis of semistructured interviews identified three themes regarding participation in SLH delivered face to face and online, these where (1) perceived benefits; (2) digital barriers (online) and (3) digital facilitators (online). Findings were summarised into key considerations for optimising transitioning singing groups from face-to-face to online delivery. Pilot quantitative data suggested possible improvements in depression (treatment effect -4.78 PHQ-9 points, p<0.05, MCID 5) and balance confidence (treatment effect +17.21 ABC scale points, p=0.04, MCID 14.2). DISCUSSION This study identifies key considerations regarding the adaptation of SLH from face-to-face to online delivery. Pilot data suggest online group singing for people with COPD may deliver benefits related to reducing depression and improved balance confidence.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Keir Ej Philip
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Respiratory Medicine, Royal Brompton and Harefield NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | | | - Edmund Jeffery
- Respiratory Medicine, Royal Brompton and Harefield NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Sara Buttery
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Respiratory Medicine, Royal Brompton and Harefield NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Phoene Cave
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Daniele Cristiano
- Respiratory Medicine, Royal Brompton and Harefield NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Adam Lound
- Respiratory Medicine, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Karen Taylor
- Respiratory Medicine, Royal Brompton and Harefield NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - William D-C Man
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Respiratory Medicine, Royal Brompton and Harefield NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Daisy Fancourt
- Department of Behavioural Science and Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Michael I Polkey
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Respiratory Medicine, Royal Brompton and Harefield NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Nicholas S Hopkinson
- National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Respiratory Medicine, Royal Brompton and Harefield NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|