Research theme
Feeling part of a band can involve the music, the people and recognition over time. Membership alone does not tell us whether someone feels included.
New Horizons members describe recognition and communication alongside rehearsal and performance. These accounts offer questions to ask locally, rather than a tested checklist for producing belonging.
Read the source notes: Ann M. Harrington (2021).
Studies describe different relationships to the label “musician.” A person can value band membership without using that label, and beginners, returners and instrument-switchers bring different histories.
Read the source notes: William M. Dabback (2010); Pamela G. Taylor (2012).
A person may feel part of an ensemble while disliking its repertoire or aspects of rehearsal. Research should leave room for those mixed experiences.
Read the source notes: Sarah E. Wilson (2017); Victoria J. Williamson; Michael Bonshor (2019).
Read the theme with care
These notes synthesize the current collection. They are not a complete systematic review, and new evidence may change the picture.
How we read the evidenceQuestions to take into practice
Follow the sources
José Cidade; Alexandra Sá Costa; João Caramelo
A Portuguese civil wind band survey finds that fellowship, musicianship and the conductor all matter to current members.
José Cidade; João Caramelo; Alexandra Sá Costa
International civil wind band literature covers social, civic and educational questions beyond musical instruction.
Emilie Louise Anderson
Seven interviewees reflect on wellbeing, growth and relationships in an intergenerational symphonic band.
Megan K. E. Lummiss
Eastern Ontario band members describe musical identity through social comparison and continuity during the pandemic.
Audrey-Kristel Barbeau; Mariane Generale; Andrea Creech
Online band activity maintained some contact while exposing limits of technology and shared music making.
Ann M. Harrington
New Horizons members describe belonging through rehearsal, performance and everyday communication.