Where words fail, music speaks : a qualitative study about the meaning of music in a person’s life

Abstract

Music is perceived by many as something which they cannot live without. This study's aim was to explore the meaning of music in the lives of participants and to gain a deeper insight into this phenomenon. In order to achieve this, seven semi-structured interviews were conducted on people who showed interest in participating in this study. The data was analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. Findings show how music helps individuals to enhance their mood and emotions, to understand themselves better and to deal with difficult moments amongst others. Participants also discuss the negative effects created by listening to music which include the association of songs with sad memories and the rumination over negative thoughts caused by listening to depressing and melancholic music. This study also explores the way the participants’ relationship with music evolved throughout their lifespan. Personal experiences shared by participants show how people are affected differently by music.