research topics about music

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A Research Guide
Research Paper Topics

120 Music Research Paper Topics

How to choose a topic for music research paper:.

Music Theory Research Paper Topics:

The influence of harmonic progression on emotional response in music
Analyzing the use of chromaticism in the compositions of Johann Sebastian Bach
The role of rhythm and meter in creating musical tension and release
Examining the development of tonality in Western classical music
Exploring the impact of cultural and historical context on musical form and structure
Investigating the use of polyphony in Renaissance choral music
Analyzing the compositional techniques of minimalist music
The relationship between melody and harmony in popular music
Examining the influence of jazz improvisation on contemporary music
The role of counterpoint in the compositions of Ludwig van Beethoven
Investigating the use of microtonality in experimental music
Analyzing the impact of technology on music composition and production
The influence of musical modes on the development of different musical genres
Exploring the use of musical symbolism in film scoring
Investigating the role of music theory in the analysis and interpretation of non-Western music

Music Industry Research Paper Topics:

The impact of streaming services on music consumption patterns
The role of social media in promoting and marketing music
The effects of piracy on the music industry
The influence of technology on music production and distribution
The relationship between music and mental health
The evolution of music genres and their impact on the industry
The economics of live music events and festivals
The role of record labels in shaping the music industry
The impact of globalization on the music industry
The representation and portrayal of gender in the music industry
The effects of music streaming platforms on artist revenue
The role of music education in fostering talent and creativity
The influence of music videos on audience perception and engagement
The impact of music streaming on physical album sales
The role of music in advertising and brand marketing

Music Therapy Research Paper Topics:

The effectiveness of music therapy in reducing anxiety in cancer patients
The impact of music therapy on improving cognitive function in individuals with Alzheimer’s disease
Exploring the use of music therapy in managing chronic pain
The role of music therapy in promoting emotional well-being in children with autism spectrum disorder
Music therapy as a complementary treatment for depression: A systematic review
The effects of music therapy on stress reduction in pregnant women
Examining the benefits of music therapy in improving communication skills in individuals with developmental disabilities
The use of music therapy in enhancing motor skills rehabilitation after stroke
Music therapy interventions for improving sleep quality in patients with insomnia
Exploring the impact of music therapy on reducing symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
The role of music therapy in improving social interaction and engagement in individuals with schizophrenia
Music therapy as a non-pharmacological intervention for managing symptoms of dementia
The effects of music therapy on pain perception and opioid use in hospitalized patients
Exploring the use of music therapy in promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety during surgical procedures
The impact of music therapy on improving quality of life in individuals with Parkinson’s disease

Music Psychology Research Paper Topics:

The effects of music on mood and emotions
The role of music in enhancing cognitive abilities
The impact of music therapy on mental health disorders
The relationship between music and memory recall
The influence of music on stress reduction and relaxation
The psychological effects of different genres of music
The role of music in promoting social bonding and cohesion
The effects of music on creativity and problem-solving abilities
The psychological benefits of playing a musical instrument
The impact of music on motivation and productivity
The psychological effects of music on physical exercise performance
The role of music in enhancing learning and academic performance
The influence of music on sleep quality and patterns
The psychological effects of music on individuals with autism spectrum disorder
The relationship between music and personality traits

Music Education Research Paper Topics:

The impact of music education on cognitive development in children
The effectiveness of incorporating technology in music education
The role of music education in promoting social and emotional development
The benefits of music education for students with special needs
The influence of music education on academic achievement
The importance of music education in fostering creativity and innovation
The relationship between music education and language development
The impact of music education on self-esteem and self-confidence
The role of music education in promoting cultural diversity and inclusivity
The effects of music education on students’ overall well-being and mental health
The significance of music education in developing critical thinking skills
The role of music education in enhancing students’ teamwork and collaboration abilities
The impact of music education on students’ motivation and engagement in school
The effectiveness of different teaching methods in music education
The relationship between music education and career opportunities in the music industry

Music History Research Paper Topics:

The influence of African music on the development of jazz in the United States
The role of women composers in classical music during the 18th century
The impact of the Beatles on the evolution of popular music in the 1960s
The cultural significance of hip-hop music in urban communities
The development of opera in Italy during the Renaissance
The influence of folk music on the protest movements of the 1960s
The role of music in religious rituals and ceremonies throughout history
The evolution of electronic music and its impact on contemporary music production
The contribution of Latin American musicians to the development of salsa music
The influence of classical music on film scores in the 20th century
The role of music in the Civil Rights Movement in the United States
The development of reggae music in Jamaica and its global impact
The influence of Mozart’s compositions on the classical music era
The role of music in the French Revolution and its impact on society
The evolution of punk rock music and its influence on alternative music genres

Music Sociology Research Paper Topics:

The impact of music streaming platforms on the music industry
The role of music in shaping cultural identity
Gender representation in popular music: A sociological analysis
The influence of social media on music consumption patterns
Music festivals as spaces for social interaction and community building
The relationship between music and political activism
The effects of globalization on local music scenes
The role of music in constructing and challenging social norms
The impact of technology on music production and distribution
Music and social movements: A comparative study
The role of music in promoting social change and social justice
The influence of socioeconomic factors on music taste and preferences
The role of music in constructing and reinforcing gender stereotypes
The impact of music education on social and cognitive development
The relationship between music and mental health: A sociological perspective

Classical Music Research Paper Topics:

The influence of Ludwig van Beethoven on the development of classical music
The role of women composers in classical music history
The impact of Johann Sebastian Bach’s compositions on future generations
The evolution of opera in the classical period
The significance of Mozart’s symphonies in the classical era
The influence of nationalism on classical music during the Romantic period
The portrayal of emotions in classical music compositions
The use of musical forms and structures in the works of Franz Joseph Haydn
The impact of the Industrial Revolution on the production and dissemination of classical music
The relationship between classical music and dance in the Baroque era
The role of patronage in the development of classical music
The influence of folk music on classical composers
The representation of nature in classical music compositions
The impact of technological advancements on classical music performance and recording
The exploration of polyphony in the works of Johann Sebastian Bach

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The Top 10 Most Interesting Music Research Topics

Music is a vast and ever-growing field. Because of this, it can be challenging to find excellent music research topics for your essay or thesis. Although there are many examples of music research topics online, not all are appropriate.

This article covers all you need to know about choosing suitable music research paper topics. It also provides a clear distinction between music research questions and topics to help you get started.

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What makes a strong music research topic.

A strong music research topic must be short, straightforward, and easy to grasp. The primary aim of music research is to apply various research methods to provide valuable insights into a particular subject area. Therefore, your topic must also address issues that are relevant to present-day readers.

Also, for your research topic to be compelling, it should not be overly generic. Try to avoid topics that seem to be too broad. A strong research topic is always narrow enough to draw out a comprehensive and relevant research question.

Tips for Choosing a Music Research Topic

Check with your supervisor. In some cases, your school or supervisor may have specific requirements for your research. For example, some music programs may favor a comparative instead of a descriptive or correlational study. Knowing what your institution demands is essential in choosing an appropriate research topic.
Explore scientific papers. Journal articles are a great way to find the critical areas of interest in your field of study. You can choose from a wide range of journals such as The Journal of Musicology and The Journal of the Royal Musical Association . These resources can help determine the direction of your research.
Determine your areas of interest. Choosing a topic you have a personal interest in will help you stay motivated. Researching music-related subjects is a painstakingly thorough process. A lack of motivation would make it difficult to follow through with your research and achieve optimal results.
Confirm availability of data sources. Not all music topics are researchable. Before selecting a topic, you must be sure that there are enough primary and secondary data sources for your research. You also need to be sure that you can carry out your research with tested and proven research methods.
Ask your colleagues: Asking questions is one of the many research skills you need to cultivate. A short discussion or brainstorming session with your colleagues or other music professionals could help you identify a suitable topic for your research paper.

What’s the Difference Between a Research Topic and a Research Question?

A research topic is a particular subject area in a much wider field that a researcher chooses to place his emphasis on. Most subjects are extensive. So, before conducting research, a researcher must first determine a suitable area of interest that will act as the foundation for their investigation.

Research questions are drawn from research topics. However, research questions are usually more streamlined. While research topics can take a more generic viewpoint, research questions further narrow the focus down to specific case studies or seek to draw a correlation between two or more datasets.

How to Create Strong Music Research Questions

Strong music research questions must be relevant and specific. Music is a broad field with many genres and possible research areas. However, your research question must focus on a single subject matter and provide valuable insights. Also, your research question should be based on parameters that can be quantified and studied using available research methods.

2. Hip-hop Culture and Its Effect on Teenage Behavior

In 2020, hip-hop and RnB had the highest streaming numbers , according to Statista. Without a doubt, hip-hop music has had a significant influence on the behavior of young adults. There is still the need to conduct extensive research on this subject to determine if there is a correlation between hip-hop music and specific behavioral patterns, especially among teenagers.

3. The Application of Music as a Therapeutic Tool

For a long time, music has been used to manage stress and mental health disorders like anxiety, PTSD, and others. However, the role of music in clinical treatment still remains a controversial topic. Further research is required to separate fact from fiction and provide insight into the potential of music therapy.

4. Contemporary Rock Music and Its Association With Harmful Social Practices

Rock music has had a great influence on American culture since the 1950s. Since its rise to prominence, it has famously been associated with vices such as illicit sex and abuse of recreational drugs. An excellent research idea could be to evaluate if there is a robust causal relationship between contemporary rock music and adverse social behaviors.

5. The Impact of Streaming Apps on Global Music Consumption

Technology has dramatically affected the music industry by modifying individual music consumption habits. Presently, over 487 million people subscribe to a digital streaming service, according to Statista. Your research paper could examine how much of an influence popular music streaming platforms like Spotify and Apple Music have had on how we listen to music.

6. Effective American Music Education Practices

Teaching practices have always had a considerable impact on students’ academic success. However, not all strategies have an equal effect in enhancing learning experiences for students. You can conduct comparative research on two or more American music education practices and evaluate their impact on learning outcomes.

7. The Evolution of Music Production in the Technology-driven Era

One of the aspects of music that is experiencing a massive change is sound production. More than ever before, skilled, tech-savvy music producers are in high demand. At the moment, music producers earn about $70,326 annually, according to ZipRecruiter. So, your research could focus on the changes in music production techniques since the turn of the 21st century.

8. Jazz Music and Its Influence on Western Music Genres

The rich history of jazz music has established it as one of the most influential genres of music since the 19th century. Over the years, several famous composers and leading voices across many other western music genres have been shaped by jazz music’s sound and culture. You could carry out research on the influence of this genre of music on modern types of music.

9. The Effect of Wars on Music

Wars have always brought about radical changes in several aspects of culture, including music styles. Throughout history, we have witnessed wars result in the death of famous musicians. If you are interested in learning about music history in relation to global events, a study on the impact of wars on music will make an excellent music research paper.

10. African Tribal Percussion

African music is well recognized for its unique application of percussion. Historically, several tribes and cultures had their own percussion instruments and original methods of expression. Unfortunately, this musical style has mainly gone undocumented. An in-depth study into ancient African tribal percussion would make a strong music research paper.

Music Research Questions

What is the relationship between country music and conservationist ideologies among middle-aged American voters?
What is the effect of listening to Chinese folk music on the critical thinking skills of high school students?
How have electronic music production technologies influenced the sound quality of contemporary music?
What is the correlation between punk music and substance abuse among Black-American males?
How does background music affect learning and information retention in children?

Choosing the Right Music Research Topic

Your research topic is the foundation on which every other aspect of your study is built. So, you must select a music research topic that gives you room to adequately explore intriguing hypotheses and, if possible, proffer practically applicable solutions.

Also, if you seek to obtain a Bachelor’s Degree in Music , you must be prepared to conduct research during your study. Choosing the right music research topic is the first step in guaranteeing good grades and delivering relevant, high-quality contributions in this constantly expanding field.

Music Research Topics FAQ

A good music research topic should be between 10 to 12 words long. Long, wordy music essay topics are usually confusing. They can make it difficult for readers to understand the goal of your research. Avoid using lengthy phrases or vague terms that could confuse the reader.

Journal articles are the best place to find helpful resources for your music research. You can explore reputable, high-impact journal articles to see if any research has been done related to your chosen topic. Journal articles also help to provide data for comparison while carrying out your research.

Primary sources carry out their own research and cite their own data. In contrast, secondary sources report data obtained from a primary source. Although primary sources are regarded as more credible, you can include a good mixture of primary and secondary sources in your research.

The most common research methods for music research are qualitative, quantitative, descriptive, and analytical. Your research strategy is arguably the most crucial part of your study. You must learn different research methods to determine which one would be the perfect fit for your particular research question.

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Best 100 music research topics (just updated).

If you are reading this, you are probably looking for the best music research topics for your next essay. Truth be told, choosing the right topic is very important. It can make the difference between a B and an A, or even between an A and an A+. Unfortunately, choosing the best topics is not as simple as you think. Even though the internet is full of music research topics, most of them are plain and, quite frankly, boring.

Your professor wants more than this. Let’s see why you need the most interesting topics and where you can find them. Of course, you are free to use any of our 100 topics for free and even reword them as you see fit. Read on!

Choosing Good Music Research Topics

By now, you are probably wondering why everyone keeps telling you to come up with the best music topics. The truth is that there are many, many benefits to choosing an awesome topic. Here are just some of them, so you can get a better idea of the importance of a great idea:

Excellent music research paper topics show your professor that you really did your best to get a top grade.
A good topic is one that you know much about. It should be relatively easy to you to research it and to write about it.
An awesome topic will pique the interest of your professor and will keep him or her reading. You will often get bonus points for this.
Great topics make you stand out from your classmates. Your professor will notice you, and the grade will reflect this.

Where Can You Find Decent Music Topics?

Finding amazing music research topics is easier said than done. Yes, the Internet is full of websites that are offering ideas. There are even websites where you can buy bundles of topics. However, the music argumentative essay topics you will get from these websites are not of the highest quality. Most of them are actually quite boring. And remember, you classmates are probably searching for music history research paper topics on the same websites as you do. You want your research topics on music or book review topics to be original, so your professor can have a reason to award your paper some bonus points. The best place to get excellent music topics to write about is this page. The list of ideas is updated frequently, so you can get an original topic for free right now.

Music History Research Topics

Are you looking for the most interesting music history research topics? If you do, just pick one from our list for free:

How did the Catholic church influence Renaissance music?
Social issues described in Baroque-period music.
Analyze the evolution of Romantic-era music.
How did the Baroque Opera come to be?
Who invented Medieval music and when?
Why has western music almost disappear in the last 10 years?
Analyze the evolution of music in the Classical era.
Analyzing violin music performance during the Romantic Era.

Music Argument Topics

Are you looking to find an argument and support it? Then you absolutely need to check out our exceptional list of music argument topics:

Music today is better than music in the 90s.
The most lucrative career for a musician.
Music helps you memorize faster.
The most popular kind of metal music.
The evolution of blues songs over the last 30 years.
Music helps children develop faster.
Hip-hop is a misunderstood music genre.
Jazz music is not obsolete.

Music Theory Topics

Interested in writing about music theory? Our amazing academic writers have put together a list of music theory topics for you:

Analyze the most important aspects of modern music.
Classical music has specific medical applications.
Hidden symbols in Renaissance-period music.
The unique features of Baroque-age music.
Analyze the evolution of music in the Baroque era.
The best music compositors in the Romantic era.
Remarkable characteristics of Romantic-age songs.
The peculiarities of Asian modern music.

Music Industry Topics

Writing about the music industry can be fun and entertaining. Your professor will love it. Pick one of our music industry topics and start writing:

What do you associate rock music with and why?
Should the music industry pay songwriters more?
How does illegal pirating of songs affect the music industry?
Do music sharing sites help new artists become famous.
Analyze the evolution of music labels in the US.
What differentiates a music label from all others?
Music talent shows and their effects on a musician’s career.
The difficulties of signing a contract with a major music label in the US.

Research Paper Topics on Music for High School

Are you a high school student? In this case, you will need our research paper topics on music for high school:

The best compositors of the Baroque Era.
What differentiates modern music from classical music?
Notable women in classical music.
Analyze the evolution of music in the Modern age.
How was Beethoven’s music influenced by his loss of hearing?
How would our world be without music?
Does music cause negative effects on US teens?

Music Thesis Topics

Writing a thesis about music is not easy. In fact, it can be one of the most difficult projects in your academic career. Start right now by choosing one of the best music thesis topics:

What made a musician stand out in the Baroque Age?
The most notable musical experiments in the Classical age.
Comparing Renaissance and Medieval music styles.
Analyze the evolution of music in the Renaissance age.
How did royalty in the UK benefit from music in the Renaissance era?
Discuss a folk song from the Renaissance age.
Differences between Asian and European classical music.

Music Controversial Topics

Music, like most other disciplines, has plenty of controversial topics you can talk about. Don’t waste any time and pick one of these music controversial topics:

Does digital music cut the profits of musicians?
Who owns the intellectual property to a song?
The difficulties of getting songwriting credit.
Illegal downloads are changing the music industry.
Should music education still be included in the curriculum?
Analyze medieval liturgical music.
Music should be free for everyone to download and use.

Persuasive Speech Topics About Music

Are you required the write a persuasive speech about music? If you are, you may need a bit of help. Pick one of these persuasive speech topics about music (updated for 2023):

Music has a significant effect on advertising.
The changes rap music has brought to the US culture.
Indie is a term that should not apply to music.
Metal music should be banned from the US.
Does listening to music have a great influence on mental health?
The amazing evolution of music in the Medieval age.
People should be free to listen to the music they like for free.
The fashion industry wouldn’t be where it is today without music.

Easy Topics About Music

Perhaps you don’t want to spend 5 or 6 hours writing the research paper . You need an easier topic. Choose one of these easy topics about music and write the essay fast:

How can one become a symbol of modern music?
My favorite singer today.
Which musician from the past would you bring back to life and why?
Do politics influence modern music?
Compare and contrast two music genres.
Analyze the evolution of music in the modern age in the United States.
The side effects of turning the volume too loud.
How is classical music used in Disney movies?

Music Education Research Topics

Are you interested in talking about music education? Perhaps you’ll have some suggestions to make after you’ve done the research. Just choose one of the music education research topics below:

Can E-Learning be applied to music education?
Can music teachers offer distance learning services?
The advantages and disadvantages of Zoom music lessons.
Why are music worksheets so important for high school students?
How did the Internet change music education?
Why are modern music studies so important?
Should we learn more about Asian music in school?
How can students learn music while respecting COVID19 measures?

Highly Interesting Music Topics

We know you want a top grade on your next music research paper. We advise you to select one of these highly interesting music topics and surprise your professor:

How did pop music came to existence and why?
Analyze the history of hip-hop music.
Compare metal music with classical music.
Why is rock music so popular in the United Kingdom?
Which song would best present our species to aliens?
Compare and contrast Korean and Chinese music.
Analyze the popular themes of Japanese music.
The stunning rise of K-pop bands.

Informative Speech Topics About Music

It’s difficult to find good informative speech topics about music these days. If you want to stand out from the rest of your classmates, choose one of our topics:

Discuss the ideas presented in romantic music.
What do people who appreciate classic music have in common?
Analyze the most popular Bach music.
Describe the role of market music in the Baroque era.
Analyze the evolution of European music.
Ways to make classical music popular with teens in the UK.
Discuss the most popular musical instrument in the Classical age.

Music Essay Topics for College

Are you a college student? If you want an A+ on your next research paper, use one of these music essay topics for college students:

Does modern music contain medieval themes?
Analyze a song from the Renaissance age.
Why is blues music so important for our culture?
Who invented the blues genre and when?
Analyze the evolution of American folk music.
Most popular names in Baroque-age songs.
Modern interpretations of medieval songs.
Listening to blues music can lead to depression.

Need some more music history paper topics? Or perhaps you need a list of music related research topics to choose from for your thesis. Our best paper writer can help you in no time. Get in touch with us and we guarantee that we will find the perfect music topic for your needs. You will be well on your way to getting the A+ you need. Give us a try and get an amazing research topic on music in 10 minutes or less!

Home » 500+ Music Research Topics

500+ Music Research Topics

Music is a universal language that has the power to evoke emotions, bring people together, and express complex ideas and feelings. As a result, it has been the subject of extensive research and analysis across a wide range of fields, from psychology and neuroscience to sociology and cultural studies. Whether you are a music student, researcher , or simply a curious enthusiast, there are countless fascinating and important topics to explore within the realm of music research. From the history and evolution of different musical genres to the impact of music on human behavior and cognition, the possibilities for investigation and discovery are virtually endless. In this post, we will highlight some of the most interesting and relevant music research topics that you can explore in your own studies or simply as a way to deepen your appreciation and understanding of this rich and diverse art form.

Music Research Topics

Music Research Topics are as follows:

The impact of music on memory retention.
The evolution of hip-hop music and its influence on popular culture.
The relationship between music and emotions.
The role of music in religious and spiritual practices.
The effects of music on mental health.
The impact of music on athletic performance.
The role of music in therapy and rehabilitation.
The evolution of classical music through the ages.
The impact of technology on music creation and distribution.
The relationship between music and language acquisition.
The cultural significance of music in different parts of the world.
The influence of popular music on politics and social issues.
The impact of music on academic performance.
The role of music in film and television.
The use of music in advertising and marketing.
The psychology of musical preferences.
The effects of music on sleep patterns and quality.
The impact of music on creativity and productivity.
The influence of music on fashion and style.
The impact of music education on childhood development.
The role of music in memory recall and nostalgia.
The effects of music on physical health.
The relationship between music and brain development.
The impact of music on the immune system.
The influence of music on social behavior.
The evolution of jazz music and its impact on society.
The role of music in cultural preservation and identity.
The effects of music on stress levels and anxiety.
The relationship between music and social movements.
The impact of music on language learning and pronunciation.
The effects of music on learning and cognition.
The influence of music on political ideologies and movements.
The impact of music on academic achievement.
The relationship between music and cultural assimilation.
The role of music in international diplomacy.
The effects of music on physical performance and endurance.
The impact of music on memory consolidation and recall.
The influence of music on fashion trends and subcultures.
The role of music in socialization and identity formation.
The effects of music on perception and attention.
The impact of music on decision making and judgment.
The relationship between music and romantic attraction.
The role of music in social justice movements.
The effects of music on motor skills and coordination.
The influence of music on cultural exchange and globalization.
The impact of music on language and cultural barriers.
The relationship between music and cultural appropriation.
The role of music in community building and activism.
The effects of music on motivation and goal setting.
The influence of music on fashion advertising and marketing.
The impact of music on social inequality and discrimination.
The relationship between music and cultural hegemony.
The role of music in political propaganda and manipulation.
The effects of music on physical therapy and rehabilitation.
The influence of music on cultural diplomacy and international relations.
The impact of music on the environment and sustainability.
The relationship between music and social hierarchies.
The role of music in cultural exchange and intercultural communication.
The effects of music on creative thinking and problem solving.
The influence of music on consumer behavior and product preferences.
The impact of music on social mobility and economic inequality.
The relationship between music and cultural diversity.
The role of music in intergenerational communication and conflict resolution.
The effects of music on mood and emotional regulation.
The influence of music on cultural authenticity and representation.
The impact of music on memory in patients with Alzheimer’s disease.
The impact of music on recovery and rehabilitation in individuals with physical injuries.
The role of music in promoting cultural exchange and understanding in international education.
The role of music in promoting cultural sensitivity and understanding in international relations.
The role of music in promoting cultural sensitivity and understanding in international human rights.
The effects of music on cognitive functioning and mental health in individuals with ADHD.
The relationship between music and cultural representation in the food and beverage industry.
The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with mixed-sexual orientations.
The impact of music on job satisfaction and retention in the finance industry.
The role of music in promoting cultural diversity and understanding in international development.
The effects of music on emotional regulation and depression in individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder.
The relationship between music and cultural representation in the transportation industry.
The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with mixed-abilities.
The impact of music on academic performance and motivation in college students.
The role of music in promoting cross-cultural understanding and acceptance in international cooperation.
The effects of music on social skills and behavior in individuals with autism spectrum disorder.
The relationship between music and cultural representation in the entertainment industry.
The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with mixed-language backgrounds.
The impact of music on creativity and innovation in the tech startup industry.
The role of music in promoting cultural sensitivity and understanding in international peacekeeping.
The effects of music on cognitive functioning and mental health in individuals with traumatic brain injury.
The relationship between music and cultural representation in the travel industry.
The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with mixed-socioeconomic backgrounds.
The impact of music on job satisfaction and productivity in the education industry.
The role of music in promoting cultural diversity and understanding in international cooperation.
The effects of music on emotional regulation and anxiety in individuals with generalized anxiety disorder.
The relationship between music and cultural representation in the home appliance industry.
The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with mixed-culture backgrounds.
The impact of music on academic performance and motivation in graduate students.
The role of music in promoting cross-cultural understanding and acceptance in international diplomacy.
The effects of music on social skills and behavior in individuals with attention deficit disorder.
The relationship between music and cultural representation in the construction industry.
The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with mixed-spiritual backgrounds.
The impact of music on creativity and productivity in the healthcare industry.
The role of music in promoting cultural sensitivity and understanding in international justice.
The effects of music on cognitive functioning and mental health in individuals with Parkinson’s disease.
The relationship between music and cultural representation in the hospitality industry.
The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with mixed-political backgrounds.
The impact of music on job satisfaction and retention in the automotive industry.
The role of music in promoting cultural diversity and understanding in international diplomacy.
The effects of music on emotional regulation and depression in individuals with major depressive disorder.
The relationship between music and cultural representation in the telecommunications industry.
The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with mixed-ethnic and racial backgrounds.
The impact of music on academic performance and motivation in high school students with disabilities.
The role of music in promoting cross-cultural understanding and acceptance in international trade.
The effects of music on social skills and behavior in individuals with borderline personality disorder.
The relationship between music and cultural representation in the fashion industry.
The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with mixed-heritage backgrounds.
The effects of music on cognitive functioning and mental health in individuals with schizophrenia.
The relationship between music and cultural representation in the technology industry.
The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with mixed-race identities.
The impact of music on job satisfaction and retention in the hospitality industry.
The role of music in promoting cultural diversity and understanding in global development.
The effects of music on emotional regulation and anxiety in individuals with social phobia.
The relationship between music and cultural representation in the toy industry.
The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with mixed-faith backgrounds.
The impact of music on academic performance and motivation in high school students.
The effects of music on social skills and behavior in individuals with oppositional defiant disorder.
The relationship between music and cultural representation in the beauty industry.
The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with mixed-ethnicity backgrounds.
The impact of music on creativity and productivity in the fashion industry.
The role of music in promoting cultural sensitivity and understanding in international aid.
The effects of music on cognitive functioning and mental health in individuals with dementia.
The relationship between music and cultural representation in the fitness industry.
The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with mixed-gender identities.
The impact of music on job satisfaction and productivity in the technology industry.
The role of music in promoting cultural diversity and understanding in international tourism.
The effects of music on emotional regulation and depression in individuals with anxiety disorders.
The relationship between music and cultural representation in the pet industry.
The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with mixed-education backgrounds.
The impact of music on academic performance and motivation in middle school students.
The effects of music on social skills and behavior in individuals with obsessive-compulsive disorder.
The relationship between music and cultural representation in the home decor industry.
The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with mixed-sex identities.
The impact of music on creativity and innovation in the gaming industry.
The role of music in promoting cultural sensitivity and understanding in international conflict resolution.
The effects of music on cognitive functioning and mental health in individuals with bipolar disorder.
The relationship between music and cultural representation in the sports industry.
The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with mixed-nationality and mixed-linguistic backgrounds.
The impact of music on job satisfaction and retention in the retail industry.
The role of music in promoting cultural diversity and understanding in global governance.
The effects of music on emotional regulation and anxiety in individuals with panic disorder.
The relationship between music and cultural representation in the electronics industry.
The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with mixed-citizenship backgrounds.
The impact of music on academic performance and motivation in elementary school students.
The role of music in promoting cross-cultural understanding and acceptance in international security.
The effects of music on social skills and behavior in individuals with conduct disorder.
The relationship between music and cultural representation in the agriculture industry.
The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with mixed-religious backgrounds.
The effects of music on cognitive functioning and mental health in individuals with traumatic brain injuries.
The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with disability identities.
The role of music in promoting cross-cultural understanding and acceptance in the healthcare industry.
The effects of music on emotional regulation and anxiety in individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with LGBTQ+ identities.
The impact of music on job satisfaction and productivity in the gig economy.
The role of music in promoting cultural sensitivity and understanding in education policy.
The effects of music on social skills and behavior in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with mixed-age identities.
The impact of music on creativity and innovation in the advertising industry.
The role of music in promoting cultural diversity and understanding in urban planning.
The effects of music on cognitive functioning and mental health in individuals with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
The relationship between music and cultural representation in the food industry.
The impact of music on job satisfaction and retention in the nonprofit sector.
The role of music in promoting cultural understanding and acceptance in international business.
The effects of music on emotional regulation and depression in individuals with chronic pain.
The relationship between music and cultural representation in the gaming industry.
The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with mixed-sexual orientation identities.
The role of music in promoting cross-cultural communication and understanding in foreign policy.
The effects of music on social skills and behavior in individuals with social anxiety disorder.
The relationship between music and cultural representation in the craft industry.
The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with mixed-disability identities.
The impact of music on creativity and productivity in the media industry.
The role of music in promoting cultural sensitivity and understanding in corporate social responsibility.
The effects of music on cognitive functioning and mental health in individuals with substance use disorders.
The relationship between music and cultural representation in the automotive industry.
The impact of music on job satisfaction and productivity in the education sector.
The role of music in promoting cultural diversity and understanding in international law.
The relationship between music and cultural representation in the wellness industry.
The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with mixed-nationality backgrounds.
The impact of music on academic performance and motivation in adult learners.
The role of music in promoting cultural understanding and acceptance in global governance.
The relationship between music and cultural representation in the furniture industry.
The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with mixed-generational backgrounds.
The impact of music on creativity and innovation in the film industry.
The role of music in promoting cultural integration and social cohesion in diverse communities.
The effects of music on cognitive functioning and mental health in individuals with multiple sclerosis.
The relationship between music and cultural representation in the tech industry.
The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in second-generation immigrants.
The role of music in promoting cross-cultural communication and understanding in diplomacy.
The effects of music on emotional regulation and self-esteem in individuals with eating disorders.
The relationship between music and cultural representation in the publishing industry.
The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in biracial and multiracial families.
The impact of music on creativity and innovation in the workplace.
The role of music in promoting cultural awareness and sensitivity in the criminal justice system.
The effects of music on social skills and behavior in individuals with schizophrenia.
The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with refugee backgrounds.
The role of music in promoting cultural understanding and acceptance in global marketing.
The effects of music on emotional regulation and anxiety in individuals with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with mixed religious backgrounds.
The impact of music on academic achievement and retention in community college students.
The role of music in promoting cultural exchange and understanding in international development.
The effects of music on social skills and behavior in individuals with bipolar disorder.
The relationship between music and cultural representation in the luxury goods industry.
The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with immigrant parents.
The impact of music on creativity and productivity in the tech industry.
The role of music in promoting cultural sensitivity and understanding in journalism.
The effects of music on emotional regulation and depression in individuals with chronic fatigue syndrome.
The relationship between music and cultural representation in the wine industry.
The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with non-binary gender identities.
The impact of music on job satisfaction and productivity in remote workers.
The role of music in promoting cultural diversity and understanding in international relations.
The role of music in promoting cultural awareness and sensitivity in diplomacy.
The effects of music on emotional regulation and self-esteem in individuals with body dysmorphia.
The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with immigrant grandparents.
The role of music in promoting cultural understanding and acceptance in global advertising.
The effects of music on social skills and behavior in individuals with borderline intellectual functioning.
The relationship between music and cultural representation in the fragrance industry.
The influence of music on cultural identity and mental health in individuals with mixed-citizenship status.
The impact of music on creativity and productivity in the creative industries
The relationship between music and social cohesion in diverse communities.
The role of music in social justice movements and protests.
The effects of music on pain management and perception.
The influence of music on cultural hybridity and globalization.
The impact of music on social identity and self-esteem.
The relationship between music and cultural imperialism.
The role of music in therapeutic settings for children and adolescents.
The effects of music on language development in bilingual children.
The influence of music on cultural representation in the media.
The impact of music on interpersonal relationships and communication.
The relationship between music and cultural hegemony in the digital age.
The role of music in community-based initiatives for social change.
The effects of music on mental health in marginalized communities.
The influence of music on cultural identity and self-expression.
The impact of music on academic engagement and success in at-risk students.
The relationship between music and cultural appropriation in popular culture.
The role of music in cultural diplomacy and international relations in the 21st century.
The effects of music on cognitive processing in individuals with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
The influence of music on cultural hybridity and transnationalism.
The impact of music on social justice advocacy and awareness-raising.
The relationship between music and cultural resistance in marginalized communities.
The role of music in the negotiation of cultural identities in the diaspora.
The effects of music on language processing and learning in second language acquisition.
The influence of music on cultural exchange and intercultural communication in the digital age.
The impact of music on academic achievement in students with disabilities.
The relationship between music and cultural hegemony in the music industry.
The role of music in the socialization and empowerment of girls and women.
The effects of music on physical health in individuals with chronic pain.
The influence of music on cultural authenticity and representation in the tourism industry.
The impact of music on the construction of gender and sexuality in popular culture.
The relationship between music and cultural appropriation in the fashion industry.
The role of music in promoting cross-cultural understanding and empathy.

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A 19th-century diagram showing different musical instruments, including harps and lyres.

Why Do People Make Music?

In a new study, researchers found universal features of songs across many cultures, suggesting that music evolved in our distant ancestors.

A research team that comprised musicologists, psychologists, linguists, evolutionary biologists and professional musicians recorded songs in 55 languages to find that songs share certain features not found in speech. Credit... Album/Alamy

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By Carl Zimmer

May 15, 2024

Music baffled Charles Darwin. Mankind’s ability to produce and enjoy melodies, he wrote in 1874, “must be ranked amongst the most mysterious with which he is endowed.”

All human societies made music, and yet, for Darwin, it seemed to offer no advantage to our survival. He speculated that music evolved as a way to win over potential mates. Our “half-human ancestors,” as he called them, “aroused each other’s ardent passions during their courtship and rivalry.”

Other Victorian scientists were skeptical. William James brushed off Darwin’s idea, arguing that music is simply a byproduct of how our minds work — a “mere incidental peculiarity of the nervous system.”

That debate continues to this day. Some researchers are developing new evolutionary explanations for music. Others maintain that music is a cultural invention, like writing, that did not need natural selection to come into existence.

In recent years, scientists have investigated these ideas with big data. They have analyzed the acoustic properties of thousands of songs recorded in dozens of cultures. On Wednesday, a team of 75 researchers published a more personal investigation of music . For the study, all of the researchers sang songs from their own cultures.

The team, which comprised musicologists, psychologists, linguists, evolutionary biologists and professional musicians, recorded songs in 55 languages, including Arabic, Balinese, Basque, Cherokee, Maori, Ukrainian and Yoruba. Across cultures, the researchers found, songs share certain features not found in speech, suggesting that Darwin might have been right: Despite its diversity today, music might have evolved in our distant ancestors.

“It shows us that there may be really something that is universal to all humans that cannot simply be explained by culture,” said Daniela Sammler, a neuroscientist at the Max Planck Institute for Empirical Aesthetics in Frankfurt who was not involved in the study.

Databases of songs collected by ethnomusicologists sometimes lack important details. It can also be hard for researchers to make sense of the structure and lyrics of songs from other cultures. Computers, likewise, are not very good at recognizing many features of music.

“We thought we should involve the insiders,” said Yuto Ozaki, who earned his doctorate at Keio University in Japan by helping to lead the project.

Dr. Ozaki’s colleague, Patrick Savage, took on the job of recruiting the singers. “It was a combination of the network I’d already built up through the first decade of my career along with going to conferences and making small talk and meeting people,” said Dr. Savage, now a musicologist at the University of Auckland.

All of the team members picked traditional songs from their cultures to record.

Asabanabushi Song (Amami Island, Japan)

Petara Song (Brazil)

Éiníní Song (Ireland)

In addition to singing, they recited the lyrics of the songs without a melody so that the team could later compare the music and speech. And for a further point of comparison, the researchers played their songs on a wide range of instruments, including sitars and melodicas.

Petara on Bamboo Flute (Brazil)

In each recording, the researchers measured six features, such as pitch and tempo. Despite their variety, all of the songs shared a number of features that set them apart from speech. The pitch was higher and more stable, for example, and the tempo was slower.

Dr. Sammler cautioned that the singers in the new study were mostly academics, and that the songs they chose might have introduced some bias into the research. “It’s essentially academics singing material that may not be representative,” she said.

But she also noted that another study , not yet published in a scientific journal, came to a similar conclusion. In that study, researchers analyzed songs from 18 languages and pinpointed many of the same features.

It’s possible that songs have distinct features because they have a special role in human communication separate from speech, said Aniruddh Patel, a psychologist at Tufts University who was not involved in the study. What’s more, our brains appear to be sensitive to those features. In 2022, Dr. Patel pointed out, researchers discovered human neurons that only responded to singing — not speech or music played on instruments.

“There is something distinctive about song all around the world as an acoustic signal that perhaps our brains have become attuned to over evolutionary time,” Dr. Patel said.

What sort of evolutionary benefit would come from that signal is still a matter of debate.

“Maybe music was needed to improve group cohesion,” Dr. Ozaki said. Singing in choruses, sharing rhythms and melodies, could have brought people together whether as a community or in preparation for a battle.

But Dr. Sammler didn’t think that the new study ruled out other roles for music, such as helping parents bond with their children . “It could support a lot of theories,” she said.

Audio courtesy of Patrick Savage. Songs by Marin Naruse, Tutushamum Puri Teyxokawa and Tadhg Ó Meachair. Instrumental by Tutushamum Puri Teyxokawa.

Carl Zimmer covers news about science for The Times and writes the Origins column . More about Carl Zimmer

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206 Best Music Research Topics That Rock The Stage

Music is one of the greatest sensations in human life. If you are writing a music research paper, you have to make sure that the topic is eye-catching. Most importantly, it should move and make you dance yourself. The topic that you are not interested in will not only make you weary, but the results would be unsatisfying too. That is why our writers have found music research paper topics for you to save the day. We love music very much, and so our team offers an Academic paper writing service , so you can trust word.

Table of Contents

Music Research Topics: History, Technical Music, Contemporary And More

Although our writers mainly offer research paper writing services , they did not hesitate for a bit when we asked them to come up with some music research topics for you. You can use any of these 206 topics for free and modify them to fit your needs and match your taste. Read on!

Music History Research Topics

Use of songwriting in relation to the political and social situations in Nazi Germany and the French Revolution
Musical Education between two centuries
Evolution in the definition of music over the centuries
Birth of Music in Mesopotamia
Impact of Arab-Andalusian music on renaissance
Folklore bands of wind music, a cultural manifestation of the people and for the people
Harmonic implications studied by Pythagoras
Music from Ancient Greek
Importance of Music in Greek Mythology
Song of the Sirens in the evolution of music
Greece, music, poetry, and dance
Athens was a center of musical poets in BC era
Classical Greek Style Music
Yanni: A Musician that fuses Modern and Classical Greek Music into one
Role of Music in Greek Tragedy
Famous musical-dramatic pieces
Heroic poets: Arab poets that formed the bases of European music
Performances in amphitheatres by singers-actors-dancers
Classical musician considered himself more of a performer than an author
Ritual dance with kettledrums around the fire: Musical Traditions of Pagan cultures
Classification of primitive musical instruments
Music in China
Music in Mayan Tradition
Apache and Native American Music
How Africans and Columbians formed the modern American music
The musical theory and the instruments used in Japan
Bagaki for Japanese Emperor ceremonies
Evolution of Indian Music
Music in the Mughal Empire
Anarkali: A musical myth with a royal background
Christian Music, Hymns and Choirs

Read More: Psychology Research Paper Topics

Technical Music research topics

Similarity measures, including rhythmic and melodic similarity.
Phylogenetic analysis of music.
National Center for Music Diffusion
Mathematical measures of rhythmic complexity and syncopation
Musical transformations of rhythm and melody
Automatic analysis of traditional music, Afro-Cuban, Brazilian and African music
The mathematical theory of rhythm
Musical constructivism
Model models (MM) and counter models (CM)
The role of sound design in video games and its application to contemporary independent works
Mathematical and computational modeling of musical phenomena (grouping, phrasing, tension, etc.)
A mathematical theory of tuning and temperament systems
Teaching mathematics through art
Music visualization
History of Modern Columbian Music
Acoustic-instrumental composition, electroacoustic and sound art
Interpretation and musical investigation
sound production
Transcription and music editing
Recovery of musical heritage
Studies of music, literature, culture, and colonial anthropology
Music by European composers of the 16th century (Renaissance)
Education and technology in educational scenarios of musical training

Music Argument Topics

Visual Media Music Studio
Music as an important expression in the history of the world
Conversations about music, culture, and identity
The architectural space as a link between music and the citizen
Music Schools for children and young people with limited resources
Role of practice and need for devotion in learning and acing the musical skills

Contemporary Music research topics

Impact of Coke Studio: From Pakistan to take over the world
Effects of Modern Music on Youth
Musical Martyrs: Freddie Mercury, Amy Winehouse, Elvis Presley
Music of Hans Zimmer
Production and exhibition of contemporary music
Entertainment and music centres
Non-formal music schools
Music and education today
Contemporary Mexican music
Satanism movement in modern music
Western musical history and “modern” music
Journey of Music: From the Medieval Family to the Modern Family
Importance of Opera in the modern age
Evolution of music over time: From orchestra to electric
Self-management and promotion of independent music
Music of electric musicians: Alan Walker, Serhat Durmus, Chain Smokers
Modern Music, A Wonderful Expression
The idiomatic reality of the English language
Modern Music in the United States
Current music pedagogy
Music education in the twentieth century

Classic Music Research Topics

Classic music of South Asia
Classic music of Africa
Classic Arab music, the influence of Soad, Um Kalthum
What makes classic music so important and why do we still have to reserve it?
Music of Beethoven, Mozart and Brahms
Use of classic music in the film
Beethoven: How he lived, composed and died
Life and music of Mozart
Classical music by Afro-American women
Music in classical films
Greatest compositions of 19-20th centuries
Style and compositions of Einaudi
Music during the classical period
Classical Music Criticism

African music research topics

The Effects of Slave Music on American History and African-American Music
The use of Afro-Caribbean rhythms for the construction of jazz musical moments
African folk music of Cuba
History of African-American Popular Music
African diversity in music
The study of the oral and musical traditions of the Afro-Mexicans
Studies of African Musical History and Its relationship with modern society
South African influences on American music
African music in Mali
African music: South Africa
Music of the Middle East and North Africa

Pop Culture Music Research Topics

The pedagogical models of popular music
Music throughout the decades of musicals
Brad Paisley and Country Music
The Effects of Music on the popular culture
Hip-hop/rap music: One of the most popular musical genres
The influence of rap music on teenagers
Irish Music: Music and Touch Other Irish Dance Music

Music Theory Topics

Genre and music preferences
The effect of instrumental music on word recall memory
Sample Music and Wellness
The music industry
The Theme of Death in a Musical
The Effects of Globalization on MusicMusic psychology research topics
The potential of music therapy to develop soft skills at the organizational level
Listening to music as a way to relieve stress for teens
The impact of theatricality within contemporary popular music concerts of the psychedelic, glam, and progressive rock genre
Trying music as therapy
How music can help students with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyper Disorder)
How can music help reduce work stress and maintain a healthy work environment
Musical manifestations of man consist of the externalization

Music Education Research Topics

New pragmatism in music education
Importance and effects of musical education
Philosophy of Music Education
Music, a tool to educate
Competencies in music education
Music as a strategy to encourage children’s effective learning
Interconnection between music and education
Philosophy of musical education

Read More: High School Research Paper Topics

Persuasive Speech Topics About Music

The music is a true reflection of the essay of American society
Music and Its Effects on Society
Matter Of Metal Music
Beethoven’s Twelfth Symphony: the second movement of the symphonic essay
Messages in music
The benefits of music trial
Does music affect blood pressure?
Music Industry Research: An Epic Battle With Youtube
Entertainment and education Via music
Whitman’s music as a means of expression
Music and its Effect on the World
Music: Essay on Music and Learning Disabilities

Read More: Political Science Research Topics

Music Controversial Topics

Whether or not profanations in music corrupt our youth
Drugs and rock and roll
Piracy and the music industry
Music censorship is a violation of freedom of expression
Music censorship
The use and overuse of the music

Read More: Criminal Justice Research Paper Topics

Music Industry Topics

Freedom of expression and rap music
Censorship in the music industry
Influence of music on culture
Analysis of Iranian film music
Analysis of the Turkish Music Industry
Analysis of the South Asian Music Industry
Coke Studio Making and Global Impact
The digital revolution: how technology changed the workflow of music composers for media
Video music as matter in motion
Acoustic and interpretive characteristics of the instruments
The study of musical composition based on pictorial works
Musical prosody of the interpretation

Arab Music Research Paper Topic

Arab music industry: Evolution after colonialism
Music of Middle
Umm Kulthum: Effects on global music
How the Arab music still impacts Asian and American Music
Effects of Arab music in popular French music
Turkish and Arab Music: A Beautiful cultural fusion
Arab Heroic Poets of Andalus and how they formed modern European music
Revival of Arab music through electrical genre

Music Thesis Topics

Film Industry Classical Music
Finding Meaning in a Musical
Music and its effect on my interpretation
How music can interact with politics
Musical phrases and the modal centres of interest of the melody
Effect of ambient music on sleep trials
Main characteristics of the musical organization
Study Of Cadences And Other Harmonic Processes In The Light Of Consonance And Dissonance Theories
Theoretical-experimental Study Of Percussion, Wind And String Instruments
Recognition Of The Instruments Of The Orchestra
Compositive Algorithms Using Unconventional Musical Magnitudes
Development Of A Microtonal Harmony As A Generalization Of The Common Practice Period
Mechanism related to the recognition of specific emotions in music
Musical emotion (emotion induction)

Read More: Biology Research Paper Topics

High School Research Paper Topics on Music

Correlation Between Personality and Musical Preferences Essay
Effects of Rock Music on Teenagers
Does popular music stay popular?
The effect of music on the interpretation of a musical
Musical activities in a spiral of development
Adolescents in the understanding of contemporary processes of music
Musical activities in the content system
Music and the value of responsibility
Presentation of musical fragments, Performance of live or recorded musical instruments
Life stories of composers and musical personalities such as Mozart and Beethoven
Presentation of music related to tastes and socio-educational reality
Exhibition of musical fragments and execution of instruments
Presentation of different types of music, the performance of musical instruments live or recorded
Experience composing music, with lyrics, instrumental or with sounds from the environment, what musical genre or type of sound production does it represent?
The practice of the studied musical instruments, record the meanings that guide your performance and preparation as a student and for life
Why is compliance with the vocal techniques of singing a duty that must be assumed consciously?
Does all music express sound? Does every sound express a genre or type of music?
Practice sound emission and tuning techniques
Why is it important to make movements according to the type of music you listen to?

Music is one of the greatest inventions of the human race. All good music makes your heart beat a little faster and soothes your mind into peace. It has been evolving since the dawn of civilization, 5000 years ago in Mesopotamia. Whatever research you make about it, just make sure that it touches your heart.

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Harvard Library
Research Guides
Faculty of Arts & Sciences Libraries

Music Research Guide

HOLLIS (Library catalog and more)
Dictionaries, Encyclopedias, Bibliographies
Recordings and Videos
Scores and Sheet Music
Concert Reviews
Collected Works Editions
Dissertations and Theses
Music in Special Collections
Ethnomusicology Research @ Harvard
Jazz Research @ Harvard This link opens in a new window
American Indigenous Music
Senior Thesis Style Guide: Footnotes
Senior Thesis Style Guide: Bibliography
Multimedia Production Resources

Using the Music Library

Welcome! This guide is a curated list of resources related to music for on-campus and remote users. Bookmark this page for easy reference, and access all of Harvard Library’s online collections using your HarvardKey.

Would you like personalized help? Contact a music librarian by emailing us, using the chat button on this guide, or scheduling a research consultation. We're happy to meet virtually, or to set up an appointment to meet in person with current Harvard students, faculty, and staff.

Email or schedule an appointment with Kerry

Start Your Research

No matter what your research topic is, here are five good places to start:

HOLLIS Harvard's main library catalogue: find books, articles, scores, recordings, and more in one search. Sign in with your Harvard Key to get more results.
Oxford Music Online Contains Grove Music Online: includes encyclopedia articles on musical genres, topics, and people.
Online Scores: Classical Scores Library Full, study, piano, and vocal scores of music from the Middle Ages to the 21st century, available for use online or printed/saved to PDF.
Online Audio: Naxos Music Library Classical, world, jazz, and folk recordings, with biographical information, opera synopses and libretti, glossaries and pronunciation guides.
Journal Articles: RILM Abstracts of Music Literature An international bibliography of music articles, collections, and books covering 10,000+ journals from the 1800s to the present. Especially good for finding book chapters and conference proceedings in addition to journal articles.
Harvard Library Bookmark Need access to an online article? Use this bookmarklet to get quick access to subscriptions purchased by Harvard Library.
Lean Library This browser extension provides quick and simple access to digital content purchased by Harvard Library.
Citation and Research Management Tools Organize your research, keep track of your references, and add citations and bibliographies to your papers. The Harvard Library supports Zotero, EndNote, and OverLeaf Pro+.
Next: HOLLIS (Library catalog and more) >>

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25 Most Popular Music Research Paper Topics for Writing

Research papers aren't just for history class or the social sciences. Research papers can be assigned in any course, and that includes music class. The world's musical traditions are fertile ground for research, but because we have been conditioned from childhood to think of music as entertainment rather than a subject for academic research, it is often difficult to come up with interesting and effective topics for a music research paper. Fortunately, music research papers are often more fun to write than other types of research paper because they have such a wide range of interesting topics to explore.

Choose from these stellar popular music research paper topics

Are you stuck looking for a music research topic? Well, you're in luck. We have twenty-five music research paper topics that will spark your creativity and get you started with your next paper. You can pick up one from this list, you can combine several of them, or maybe you will get inspired by this list and come with several topics on your own. In any case, make sure that the popular music topic for your research paper is interesting to you personally, and doesn't just sound potentially easy to write about.

1. How is music marketed by demographic? Explore the different ways music companies target various demographic groups such as age and gender. 2. How does the categorization of music affect consumer purchasing decisions? Examine how the emphasis on genre either enhances sales or limits consumer interest. 3. Does the album have a future in the streaming era? Consider whether the album can survive in an era when singles are streamed in customized playlists. 4. How has music changed over the past half century? Explore some of the major themes and developments that have shaped popular music since the dawn of the rock-n-roll era. 5. Research the most influential musicians of a specific era. By comparing and contrasting the careers of key figures from a particular era, you can pain a picture of a moment in time. 6. What makes music "classical"? How we define "classical" music says a lot about power and privilege. Explore who decides and what criteria get used. 7. Does music have an impact on our bodies? Research medical evidence whether music can impact human health. 8. Does music have an impact on our mental health? Examine research on the use of music for mental health and therapeutic purposes. 9. Music and children: Is the Mozart effect real? How can music education impact children's academic and social development? 10. Can music education aid in memory training and memory development? Consider the current academic research and evaluate the validity of claims for music as a memory aid. 11. How does music impact dance? Music and dance are inextricably linked. Look at some of the ways that music impacts the development of dance. 12. How does a musician become successful? Examine key routes to success and what a music student can do to set themselves up for a career. 13. What other careers does a music degree prepare a student for? Research how music degrees can set the stage for careers beyond the music industry. 14. How does music impact fashion? Look at how rock-n-roll and hip hop have shaped fashion trends. 15. How is music used in advertising? Look into the reasons that artists are licensing hit singles to sell products and how that impacts consumers' views of music. 16. Classical music vs. rock-n-roll: Which has been more influential? Examine the arguments for both sides and take a position. 17. Look into the sociology of tribute bands and consider the reasons that people would dedicate their lives to imitating other musicians. 18. It is often said that "music soothes the savage beast," and farmers often use music to calm livestock. Is there truth to the notion that music has a positive impact on animals? Explore the research and draw conclusions.

19. Music has been an important part of war throughout history, both martial music meant to rally the troops and anti-war songs. Examine the role of music in supporting and opposing war. 20. Music vs. poetry: Can song lyrics be considered a form of poetry? Why or why not? 21. How does hip-hop support African American culture and heritage? 22. Is there a problem with the close association of country music with political conservatism? 23. Select your favorite piece of music and research the influences that played a role in its creation and development. 24. Research the processes that archaeologists have used to reconstruct the sound of ancient music. 25. How do covers transform songs? Explore how covers are created now meaning.

After choosing the topic you like the most, save this list or this page to bookmarks for further references. It is good to have a library of resources at your fingertips.

Let experts rock when you are stuck

If these topics aren't enough to get you started, there is another trick to help you succeed. You can always find someone to help you with your research paper. You can contact a paper writing service online like WriteMyPaperHub and ask a professional essay writer, "Can I pay you to write my paper like an expert?" Once you do, a writer will determine what you need for your project and will begin writing a high-quality music research paper that will address your essay topic quickly, effectively, and with exceptional research and writing. You should feel free to take advantage of services like this whenever you get stuck so you can be successful with each and every music research paper.

Learning from the best and the brightest is more than beneficial. You have an opportunity to see how professional writers elaborate on a particular topic, which references they use, how they structure the whole thing. One ordered paper can be an example for your further works for months. Also, it is proven that students these days are overwhelmed with the number of assignments, and due to continuous lockdowns and limitations have less access to libraries and other necessary resources. If you feel like the pressure is too high, don't hesitate to delegate this assignment.

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200 Best Music Research Paper Topics For Students

Music research topics are an excellent opportunity to trace the history of the development of individual genres or entire eras. You can create an essay or research paper with an emphasis on certain stylistic features, or delve deeper into the technical aspects of album making. Also, the research topics in music allow you to learn more about popular composers, musicians, and individual bands. You can find out the history of creating certain songs or finding out the nuances of the breakup of groups.

While music research paper topics seem easy, it still requires a good outline and reliable sources to gather information. The life of many musicians is very busy, so certain topics for music research papers may require a more thorough analysis. For example, you will need to research the biography and all creation stages of famous music industry personalities.

Any research topic about music should be analyzed, and only verified facts added. You should also avoid using emotional coloring and bias. And don't forget about formatting. Any interesting music topics require clear structuring into paragraphs, lists, and subheadings.

By popular genres & styles

Individual styles are especially appreciated in research paper topics on music. You can choose the genre or group that interests you. This will allow you to get additional motivation and focus more on facts. The main challenge in this case is to find authoritative sources.

The impact of rock and roll on the modern music industry.
The basic concepts of creating musical songs.
Rock performers and their popularity in society.
Reasons for the negative attitude towards the rock vocalist.
Rock musicians and problems with the law.
The nuances of alcohol addiction of rock musicians.
The main features of creating rock songs.
Musical agitation as the main motive of rock songs.
The main reasons for making rock songs.
Symbiosis of rock and classical music.
Rock performers and popular musicians.
The analysis of the creative personality on the example of Kurt Cobain.
The modern musical trend in culture.
Top 10 most popular metal groups.
Why has metal music become so popular?
The mix of traditional music and heavy metal.
Analysis of lyrical constructions of metal performers.
The symbiosis of musical instruments in metal music.
The analysis of seventh chords in the construction of metal songs.
The influence of metal on other genres.
The symbiosis of metal and pop music.
The influence of metal vocalists on American culture.
The symbiosis of genres as the reason for the creation of metal.
The modern icons of the metal scene.
The best metal bands in the last thirty years.
The analysis of the dynamics of the popularity of metal bands.
The modern concerts on the example of metal bands
Female vocalists in pop music.
The reason for the creation of numerous female musical groups.
Pop music as a tuning fork of public morality.
Why is pop music degrading?
How can pop music be used to improve college grades?
The nuances of using pop music in contemporary American culture.
How can pop music be used to improve mood?
The symbiosis of pop music and rap culture.
How does contemporary pop music affect young people?
The study of pop music in the context of the social culture of Harlem.
The classic examples of pop artists.
Madonna: the most popular popes of personalities.
The analysis of the popularity of Britney Spears.
Pop icons of the past decade.
Hip-hop as the basis of the movement for social equality.
The origins of hip-hop and the reasons for its popularization.
How does hip-hop affect contemporary pop artists?
The analysis of hip-hop performers on the example of the best vocalists of the decade.
How does hip-hop allow athletes to train?
Modern hip-hop and new musical trends.
The symbiosis of hip-hop and metal music.
How does hip-hop motivate people for sporting achievements?
The analysis of hip-hop performers on the example of female vocalists.
Modern hip-hop and its impact on youth.
The main aspects of the integration of hip-hop music in the modern community.
All technical aspects of creating hip-hop music.
The classic approach to the formation of hip-hop motives.
The analysis of the structure of hip-hop songs.
The best hip-hop artists of the last decade.
The stages of the formation of jazz as a separate musical genre.
Why is jazz so popular these days?
The nuances of studying jazz musical combinations.
How Jess influences the structuring of student learning.
The nuances of jazz performers in modern America.
The best American jazz performers.
Jazz as the most structured musical theory.
How can you quickly learn to create jazz compositions?
The influence of jazz on the cultural and political elite of the United States.
Can jazz replace other musical styles?
Jazz fusion as an example of musical prowess.
The technical aspects of creating a pentatonic scale in a jazz style.
The selection of jazz musicians.
The development of jazz in the United States.
The main reasons for the popularization of jazz in modern society.
Blues and its influence on the development of the music industry.
The symbiosis of blues and jazz.
Can the Blues be compared to classical music?
How do contemporary artists use the Blues in pop music?
Historical context creation of blues compositions.
How does the Blues affect rock music?
Can the Blues help students learn?
How blues musicians are developing in the USA.
Can blues be used as a springboard for classical music production?
The best US blues artists of the last 20 years.
Blues performers of the last ten years.
The influence of the blues on the formation of other genres.
The analysis of the statistical popularity of the blues.
The critical aspects when creating Blues compositions.
The selection of blues parties when creating music.
The influence of classical music on pop culture.
The classical music and the best composers of the last century.
Beethoven and his best works.
How did Mozart influence classical music?
Is the symbiosis of jazz and classical music possible?
The structure of making classical music.
The stages of the formation of classical music in modern society.
Can you replace pop culture with classical music?
How does classical music affect the psychological state of people?
The classical music and symbiosis with opera.
The basic concept of the analysis of classical music.
A technical comparison of the mastery of classical composers.
The choice of classical music for the mood.
The classical music and its influence on rock culture.
The main technical aspects of creating a score.

The region is important for those looking for musical topics for research paper. Most genres of European music and some information about composers are open to general use. If your research topic on music is aimed at analyzing the Arab countries, then you will need more time looking for reliable information. The fact is that not all Muslim archives are in the public domain.

Western music

The features of musical motives of Western music.
The history of Western music with real examples.
How has Western music changed over the past two hundred years?
Is it possible to combine Western music with European motives?
The features of the use of traditional Western musical instruments.
How do Western countries use music for meditation?
Western music in the context of modern society.
The role of Western music in the life of native people.
How melodic is oriental music?
The stages of the formation of Western music in American culture.

European music

European music and modern trends.
British pop bands and their worldwide popularity.
How popular are German pop bands in the USA?
European music and national musical instruments.
How does European music affect well-being?
The analysis of European music with specific examples.
Top 10 of the greatest European musical groups.
The analysis of European music on the example of instrumental groups.
The best pop music performers in Europe.
How does pop music influence the development of culture?

Asian music

Asian music: the example of ethnic trends.
The influence of Asian music on world culture.
The main musical instruments of Asia.
Can you compare Asian music with European motives?
How has Asian music changed over the past hundred years?
The nuances of creating Asian music.
How does Asian music influence contemporary cinema?
The best Asian performers.
Top 10 Asian vocalists who have conquered the whole world.
Do national instruments influence the creation of Asian music?

By history periods

You can use music appreciation research paper topics to analyse a specific period in history. Baroque, Renaissance and other eras are especially relevant for research as they allow you to see the history of the development of music. You can concentrate on a specific time period and the most famous composers.

Medieval music and its influence on the Crusades.
The major trends in the medieval music industry.
The influence of kings on the creation of medieval music.
The main musical instruments in medieval Europe.
Musical instruments in Central Asia during the Middle Ages.
What kind of music was popular in the Middle Ages.
How difficult was the life of a musician in the Middle Ages?
The analysis of medieval music on modern examples.
How has contemporary music influenced pop culture?
Historical aspects of the creation of medieval music.
The influence of medieval music and culture.
The rhythmic pattern of medieval music.
The medieval music during the feast.
The influence of medieval music on classical music.
The medieval music channel and musical comparison.

Renaissance

The dawn of musical culture during the Renaissance.
The analysis of Renaissance music with specific examples.
How has Renaissance music influenced contemporary pop culture?
The analysis of Renaissance music as a constructive masterpiece.
The nuances of Renaissance music and, most importantly, musical instruments.
How difficult is it to reproduce Renaissance music in today's environment?
The analysis of structural compositions of the Renaissance.
Renaissance music as a tuning fork of public morality.
How has music changed since the Renaissance?
Can Renaissance music be used to create a modern instrumental ensemble?

Baroque Age (XVI-XVIII)

The influence of politicians on the formation of music during the Baroque period.
How has Baroque influenced contemporary instrumental music?
The nuances of musical constructions during the Baroque period.
How has the baroque influenced modern instruments?
The nuances of the Baroque in the context of the complexity of musical compositions.
The main effect of the Baroque in contemporary music.
The historical aspects of the creation of the Baroque as a separate genre of music.
The influence of the Baroque on the creation of contemporary musical groups.
The analysis of the structure and musical motives of Baroque in detail.
Baroque in contemporary music.
The nuances of creating songs in the Baroque style.

Classical Age (XVIII-XIV)

The Classical Age of music in modern society.
How did the Classical Age influence the formation of musical trends?
The general concept of the Classical Age in instrumental music.
The nuances of creating music based on the Classical Age.
How did the Classical Age influence the creation of pop culture?
The theory of creating musical compositions on the example of the Classical Age.
The general factors of the Classical Age in instrumental music.
The main trends and popular instruments of the Classical Age.
The main musical compositions of the 14th century.
The main factors in the creation of musical compositions in the 13th century.

Romantic Era (XIV-XX)

The Romantic Era and its impact on contemporary music.
The main principles of structuring music into the Romantic Era.
Features of creating instrumental compositions in the Romantic Era.
The Romantic Era and modern music trends.
The main factors influencing the Romantic Era in the music industry.
Key figures in the music industry and their passion for the Romantic Era.
How did the Romantic Era form the modern style?
How has the Romantic Era influenced rhythmic music?
The Romantic Era in the music industry.
The main aspects of the formation of the Romantic Era in musical culture.
Making marching music in the Romantic Era.
Features of creating musical compositions.
The technical aspects that influenced modern romantic motives.

Modern Era (XX-XXI)

Jazz music as a phenomenon of the modern roar the influence of the modern era on instrumental music.
Technical aspects of hip-hop and Reggae.
How is contemporary classical music created?
Can modern music genres be combined to create something new?
Why is the modern music industry stagnating?
The aspects of contemporary music.
How does instrumental music affect culture?
Contemporary music and technical innovation.
How is contemporary music created?
The nuances of creating hip-hop albums.

How To Write On Music Related Research Topics

By choosing topics about music for an essay, you get the opportunity to prepare a detailed paper work with facts, genre nuances and detailed biographies of famous musicians. You need to stick to the formatting and your outline. Find reliable information for music history research topics and talk about the emergence of certain genres.

Music business research topics are especially important, as you need to consider not only the stylistic but also the commercial nuances of the bands. For example, you can prepare detailed data on annual music tours or album sales.

All music appreciation presentation topics require detailed factual focus, which can be difficult for many people. If you are not ready to do it yourself, then we can help you.

Our service will solve your problem with music research topics high school. We also guarantee that you will get a good grade. We will help you organize all the nuances so that your music history paper topics become a reason for pride and high scores.

An Inspiration List

popular music | Description, History, & Facts | Britannica
History of music
Music History from Primary Sources
Brief History of Music: An Introduction
How Music and Instruments Began

Diverse Music Essay Topics for Students and Music Enthusiasts

Table of contents

1 How to Write an Essay on Music
2.1 Argumentative Essay Topics about Music
2.2 Topics for College Essays about Music
2.3 Controversial Topics in Music
2.4 Classical Music Essay Topics
2.5 Jazz Music Essay Topics
2.6 Rock and Pop Music Essay Topics
2.7 Persuasive Essay Topics about Music

Music is a magical world of different sounds and stories. When we talk about music, there are so many things we can explore. Writing essays about sound lets us share our feelings and thoughts about this wonderful art. In this collection, you will find 140 music essay topics.

These topics are carefully chosen to help you think and write about sound in many exciting ways. Whether you love listening to music or playing an instrument, these topics about music for an essay will spark your creativity. They cover everything, from your favorite songs to the history of music. So, get ready to dive into the sound world with these fun and interesting essay ideas!

How to Write an Essay on Music

Writing an essay about sound can be a fun and exciting way to express your thoughts and feelings about this amazing art form. Whether you are working on college essays about music, or research paper topics on music, here are some steps to help you create a great piece of writing.

First, choose a topic that you are passionate about. It could be anything from your favorite musician to a specific sound genre. For a college essay about sound, you might want to share a personal story about how music has impacted your life. For argumentative essay topics about sound, consider issues like the importance of sound education or the effects of music on the brain. If you’re working on a research paper on sound, explore the history of a certain music style or the role of sound in different cultures.
Once you have your topic, start with some research. Look for interesting facts, stories, and opinions about your topic. This will give you many ideas and help you understand your topic better.
Next, create an outline for your essay. This will help you organize your thoughts and keep your writing clear and focused. Start with an introduction that introduces your topic and grabs the reader’s attention. Then, write a few paragraphs that explain your main points. Each paragraph should focus on one main idea or argument. In your writing, explain things in a way that’s easy to understand. Use simple words and short sentences.
Also, try to include examples and personal experiences to make your essay more interesting and relatable.

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List of Topics about Music for an Essay – 40 words

Discover a world of music topics to write about in this list! From fun ideas to controversial topics in music, these essay suggestions will inspire you to explore the diverse and exciting universe of music.

Argumentative Essay Topics about Music

Dive into the world of melodies and rhythms with these essay topics about music! Whether you’re passionate about different genres or curious about the impact of sound, these argumentative essay topics will guide you to explore and express your views on various musical aspects. So, let’s get ready to write and debate about the diverse and vibrant universe of sound.

Is Melody Essential in Every School’s Curriculum
The Impact of Melody on Mental Health
Should There Be More Support for Local Musicians
The Role of Songs in Cultural Preservation
Does Modern Melody Lack Originality
The Effects of Sound on Productivity
Are Music Award Shows Biased
The Importance of Lyrics in Songs
Should Songs Be Used in Advertising
The Influence of Music on Fashion Trends
Does Melody Promote a Better Global Understanding
Should Explicit Sound Be Censored
Are Songs Festivals Beneficial for Local Communities
The Role of Technology in Melody Production
Is Classical Melody Still Relevant in the Modern Era
The Impact of Social Media on Musicians’ Success
Should Music Be Included in Workplace Settings
The Role of Melody in Political Movements
Are Music Streaming Services Fair to Artists
The Importance of Preserving Traditional Melody

Topics for College Essays about Music

Step into the rhythm of words with these research paper topics about music, perfect for college essays. These topics offer a wide range of ideas, from personal experiences to cultural impacts, inviting you to explore the profound influence of sound. They are designed to inspire deep thought and passionate writing, helping you connect your academic skills with your love for melody.

How Sound Influences Fashion Trends
The Role of Melody in Different Cultures
Personal Growth Through Learning a Musical Instrument
The Evolution of a Specific Melody Genre
The Impact of Songs Streaming Services on Artists
Music as a Form of Social Protest
The Psychological Effects of Melody on the Human Mind
The Importance of Songs Education in Schools
The Relationship Between Melody and Memory
How Technology Has Changed the Way We Experience Music
The Representation of Women in Music
Music’s Role in Personal Identity
The Influence of Melody on Mood and Behavior
The Resurgence of Vinyl Records in the Digital Age
The Globalization of Music and Its Effects
The Economic Impact of the Songs Industry
Melody as a Tool for International Diplomacy
The Ethics of Music Sampling and Remixing
The Role of Melody in Film and Media
The Future of Live Music Performances

Controversial Topics in Music

Embark on a journey through the provocative and often debated realms of music with these 20 topics on controversial topics in music. These topics are designed to stir thought and conversation, challenging you to explore the music world’s more contentious and complex aspects. From ethical dilemmas to cultural controversies, these subjects offer diverse perspectives for deep exploration and spirited discussion.

The Impact of Song Piracy on the Industry
Censorship in Songs and Its Effects on Artistic Freedom
The Portrayal of Women in Popular Song Videos
The Commercialization of Indie Melody Genres
The Role of Auto-Tune in Modern Music
Melody as a Tool for Political Propaganda
The Influence of Corporate Sponsors in Melody Festivals
The Ethical Considerations of Posthumous Melody Releases
Cultural Appropriation in the Song Industry
The Decline of Traditional Songs Forms
The Relationship Between Melody and Substance Abuse
The Effect of Digital Streaming on Melody Quality
The Representation of Minority Groups in Mainstream Music
The Debate Over Explicit Lyrics and Parental Advisory Labels
The Rise of AI in Songs Creation
The Impact of Reality Song Shows on the Industry
The Role of Gender in Melody Award Nominations
Melody and Its Influence on Youth Behavior
The Sustainability of the Music Tour Industry
The Shift in Melody Consumption From Albums to Singles

Classical Music Essay Topics

Go on an enlightening journey through the world of melodies and harmonies with these 20 music topics to research, perfect for crafting compelling college essays. These topics delve into music’s vast and varied dimensions, from its historical roots to its modern-day impact. They are designed to ignite your curiosity and inspire in-depth exploration, blending academic rigor with a passion for music.

The Evolution of Melody Through the Decades
The Influence of Classical Song on Modern Genres
The Psychological Effects of Melody Therapy
The Role of Women Composers in Song History
The Impact of Social Media on Emerging Musicians
The Significance of Folk Song in Cultural Heritage
The Development of Electronic Melody and Its Future
Melody Censorship and Its Implications for Artistic Expression
The Role of Song in Film and Storytelling
The Globalization of Songs Genres and Styles
The Relationship Between Music and Fashion Trends
The History of Rock Melody and Its Cultural Impact
The Use of Songs in Advertising and Consumer Behavior
The Effects of Song Streaming on the Melody Industry
The Intersection of Melody and Political Movements
The Role of Songs in Shaping Youth Culture
The Cultural Significance of Melody Festivals Worldwide
The Preservation and Revival of Indigenous Music
The Impact of Technology on Songs Production and Distribution
The Contribution of Music to Mental Health and Wellbeing

Jazz Music Essay Topics

Step into the soulful and vibrant jazz world with these music topics for essays. Jazz, a genre rich in history and innovation, offers a treasure trove of fascinating themes for exploration. These essay topics will guide you through jazz’s intricate rhythms and stories, from its early beginnings to its modern interpretations. Delve into this mesmerizing music style’s legendary artists, iconic performances, and cultural impacts.

The Origins of Jazz and Its Early Influences
The Evolution of Jazz Through the 20th Century
Key Figures in the Development of Jazz Music
The Role of Improvisation in Jazz
The Influence of Jazz on Other Melody Genres
The Cultural Significance of Jazz in the Harlem Renaissance
The Globalization of Jazz Melody
The Impact of Technology on Jazz Recording and Production
The Fusion of Jazz With Other Musical Styles
Jazz as a Form of Social and Political Expression
The Portrayal of Jazz in Cinema and Literature
The Future of Jazz in the Digital Age
The Role of Jazz in Education and Music Therapy
Women in Jazz: Contributions and Challenges
The Jazz Scene in Different Parts of the World
The Preservation of Classic Jazz in Modern Times
The Influence of Jazz on Fashion and Lifestyle
Jazz Clubs and Their Role in Cultural Development
The Impact of Jazz Festivals on Local Communities
The Relationship Between Jazz and Modern Dance Forms

Rock and Pop Music Essay Topics

Rock and pop music, with its pulsing rhythms and catchy melodies, have captivated audiences for decades. This collection of 20 unique essay topics explores the depth and diversity of these influential genres. From the electric energy of rock to the widespread appeal of pop, these topics invite you to delve into the history, evolution, and cultural significance of these dynamic music styles. Whether examining iconic artists, groundbreaking albums, or the social impact of these genres, each topic offers a fascinating avenue for exploration and discussion in your essays.

The Evolution of Rock Songs From the 1950s to Today
The Influence of Pop Melody on Global Culture
The Role of Songs Videos in Shaping Rock and Pop
The Impact of Digital Streaming on the Rock and Pop Industry
The Significance of the Beatles in Music History
The Rise and Fall of Glam Rock
The Role of Women in the Development of Pop Music
The Influence of Rock Melody on Fashion Trends
The Changing Face of Pop Songs in the 21st Century
The Impact of Social Media on Rock and Pop Musicians
The Fusion of Rock With Other Melody Genres
The Role of Rock and Pop Music in Political Movements
The Evolution of Live Performances in Rock and Pop
The Significance of the Grammy Awards in Rock and Pop
The Depiction of Rock and Pop Songs in Movies
The Influence of Technology on the Production of Rock and Pop Music
The Cultural Diversity in the Rock and Pop Melody Scenes
The Role of Indie Labels in the Rock and Pop Industry
The Impact of Fan Culture on Rock and Pop Song
The Sustainability of Rock and Pop Songs in the Streaming Era

Persuasive Essay Topics about Music

Take a trip through melody and argument with these 20 music-related persuasive essay topics. Each topic, chosen for its ability to inspire compelling arguments and deep research, falls under the umbrella of musical topics for research papers. These prompts will challenge you to explore various facets of music, from cultural significance to technological impacts. As you delve into these topics, you’ll be encouraged to form strong opinions and support them with well-researched evidence, making your essays informative and persuasive.

The Necessity of Melody Education in Schools for Overall Development
The Impact of Classical Songs on Cognitive Abilities
Song Streaming Services and Their Effect on the Industry
The Role of Melody in Maintaining Mental Health
Songs as a Universal Language Bridging Cultural Divides
The Importance of Preserving Traditional Melody Forms
Music’s Influence on Fashion and Lifestyle
The Ethical Implications of Auto-Tune in Song Production
The Role of Social Media in the Success of New Artists
The Power of Songs in Social and Political Activism
The Benefits of Attending Live Music Performances
Songs as a Tool for Improving Concentration and Productivity
The Evolution of Melody Genres and Its Cultural Impact
The Effects of Background Song in Public Spaces
The Role of Songs in Advertising Effectiveness
Music’s Influence on Youth and Teen Development
The Relationship Between Melody and Emotional Intelligence
The Future of Virtual Reality Concerts in the Melody Industry
The Impact of Songs Piracy on Artists and Producers
The Role of Melody in Enhancing Cross-Cultural Communication

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EDITORIAL article

Editorial: the impact of music on human development and well-being.

$\nGraham F. Welch$

1 Department of Culture, Communication and Media, University College London, London, United Kingdom
2 Department of Philosophy, Sociology, Education and Applied Psychology, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
3 School of Humanities and Communication Arts, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
4 Melbourne Conservatorium of Music, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia

Editorial on the Research Topic The Impact of Music on Human Development and Well-Being

Music is one of the most universal ways of expression and communication for humankind and is present in the everyday lives of people of all ages and from all cultures around the world ( Mehr et al., 2019 ). Hence, it seems more appropriate to talk about musics (plural) rather than in the singular ( Goble, 2015 ). Furthermore, research by anthropologists as well as ethnomusicologists suggests that music has been a characteristic of the human condition for millennia (cf. Blacking, 1976 ; Brown, 1999 ; Mithen, 2005 ; Dissanayake, 2012 ; Higham et al., 2012 ; Cross, 2016 ). Nevertheless, whilst the potential for musical behavior is a characteristic of all human beings, its realization is shaped by the environment and the experiences of individuals, often within groups ( North and Hargreaves, 2008 ; Welch and McPherson, 2018 ). Listening to music, singing, playing (informally, formally), creating (exploring, composing, improvising), whether individually and collectively, are common activities for the vast majority of people. Music represents an enjoyable activity in and of itself, but its influence goes beyond simple amusement.

These activities not only allow the expression of personal inner states and feelings, but also can bring about many positive effects in those who engage in them. There is an increasing body of empirical and experimental studies concerning the wider benefits of musical activity, and research in the sciences associated with music suggests that there are many dimensions of human life—including physical, social, educational, psychological (cognitive and emotional)—which can be affected positively by successful engagement in music ( Biasutti and Concina, 2013 ). Learning in and through music is something that can happen formally (such as part of structured lessons in school), as well as in other-than-formal situations, such as in the home with family and friends, often non-sequentially and not necessarily intentional, and where participation in music learning is voluntary, rather than mandated, such as in a community setting (cf. Green, 2002 ; Folkestad, 2006 ; Saether, 2016 ; Welch and McPherson, 2018 ).

Such benefits are evidenced across the lifespan, including early childhood ( Gerry et al., 2012 ; Williams et al., 2015 ; Linnavalli et al., 2018 ), adolescence ( McFerran et al., 2018 ), and older adulthood ( Lindblad and de Boise, 2020 ). Within these lifespan perspectives, research into music's contribution to health and well-being provides evidence of physical and psychological impacts ( MacDonald et al., 2013 ; Fancourt and Finn, 2019 ; van den Elzen et al., 2019 ). Benefits are also reported in terms of young people's educational outcomes ( Guhn et al., 2019 ), and successful musical activity can enhance an individual's sense of social inclusion ( Welch et al., 2014 ) and social cohesion ( Elvers et al., 2017 ).

This special issue provides a collection of 21, new research articles that deepen and develop our understanding of the ways and means that music can impact positively on human development and well-being. The collection draws on the work of 88 researchers from 17 different countries across the world, with each article offering an illustration of how music can relate to other important aspects of human functioning. In addition, the articles collectively illustrate a wide range of contemporary research approaches. These provide evidence of how different research aims concerning the wider benefits of music require sensitive and appropriate methodologies.

In terms of childhood and adolescence, for example, Putkinen et al. demonstrate how musical training is likely to foster enhanced sound encoding in 9 to 15-year-olds and thus be related to reading skills. A separate Finnish study by Saarikallio et al. provides evidence of how musical listening influences adolescents' perceived sense of agency and emotional well-being, whilst demonstrating how this impact is particularly nuanced by context and individuality. Aspects of mental health are the focus for an Australian study by Stewart et al. of young people with tendencies to depression. The article explores how, despite existing literature on the positive use of music for mood regulation, music listening can be double-edged and could actually sustain or intensify a negative mood.

A Portuguese study by Martins et al. shifts the center of attention from mental to physical benefits in their study of how learning music can support children's coordination. They provide empirical data on how a sustained, 24-week programme of Orff-based music education, which included the playing of simple tuned percussion instruments, significantly enhanced the manual dexterity and bimanual coordination in participant 8-year-olds compared to their active control (sports) and passive control peers. A related study by Loui et al. in the USA offers insights into the neurological impact of sustained musical instrument practice. Eight-year-old children who play one or more musical instruments for at least 0.5 h per week had higher scores on verbal ability and intellectual ability, and these correlated with greater measurable connections between particular regions of the brain related to both auditory-motor and bi-hemispheric connectivity.

Younger, pre-school children can also benefit from musical activities, with associations being reported between informal musical experiences in the home and specific aspects of language development. A UK-led study by Politimou et al. found that rhythm perception and production were the best predictors of young children's phonological awareness, whilst melody perception was the best predictor of grammar acquisition, a novel association not previously observed in developmental research. In another pre-school study, Barrett et al. explored the beliefs and values held by Australian early childhood and care practitioners concerning the value of music in young children's learning. Despite having limited formal qualifications and experience of personal music learning, practitioners tended overall to have positive attitudes to music, although this was biased toward music as a recreational and fun activity, with limited support for the notion of how music might be used to support wider aspects of children's learning and development.

Engaging in music to support a positive sense of personal agency is an integral feature of several articles in the collection. In addition to the Saarikallio team's research mentioned above, Moors et al. provide a novel example of how engaging in collective beatboxing can be life-enhancing for throat cancer patients in the UK who have undergone laryngectomy, both in terms of supporting their voice rehabilitation and alaryngeal phonation, as well as patients' sense of social inclusion and emotional well-being.

One potential reason for these positive findings is examined in an Australian study by Krause et al. . They apply the lens of self-determination theory to examine musical participation and well-being in a large group of 17 to 85-year-olds. Respondents to an online questionnaire signaled the importance of active music making in their lives in meeting three basic psychological needs embracing a sense of competency, relatedness and autonomy.

The use of public performance in music therapy is the subject of a US study by Vaudreuil et al. concerning the social transformation and reintegration of US military service members. Two example case studies are reported of service members who received music therapy as part of their treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury, and other psychological health concerns. The participants wrote, learned, and refined songs over multiple music therapy sessions and created song introductions to share with audiences. Subsequent interviews provide positive evidence of the beneficial psychological effects of this programme of audience-focused musical activity.

Relatedly, McFerran et al. in Australia examined the ways in which music and trauma have been reported in selected music therapy literature from the past 10 years. The team's critical interpretive synthesis of 36 related articles led them to identify four different ways in which music has been used beneficially to support those who have experienced trauma. These approaches embrace the use of music for stabilizing (the modulation of physiological processes) and entrainment (the synchronization of music and movement), as well as for expressive and performative purposes—the fostering of emotional and social well-being.

The therapeutic potential of music is also explored in a detailed case study by Fachner et al. . Their research focuses on the nature of critical moments in a guided imagery and music session between a music therapist and a client, and evidences how these moments relate to underlying neurological function in the mechanics of music therapy.

At the other end of the age span, and also related to therapy, an Australian study by Brancatisano et al. reports on a new Music, Mind, and Movement programme for people in their eighties with mild to moderate dementia. Participants involved in the programme tended to show an improvement in aspects of cognition, particularly verbal fluency and attention. Similarly, Wilson and MacDonald report on a 10-week group music programme for young Scottish adults with learning difficulties. The research data suggest that participants enjoyed the programme and tended to sustain participation, with benefits evidenced in increased social engagement, interaction and communication.

The role of technology in facilitating access to music and supporting a sense of agency in older people is the focus for a major literature review by Creech , now based in Canada. Although this is a relatively under-researched field, the available evidence suggests that that older people, even those with complex needs, are capable of engaging with and using technology in a variety of ways that support their musical perception, learning and participation and wider quality of life.

Related to the particular needs of the young, children's general behavior can also improve through music, as exampled in an innovative, school-based, intensive 3-month orchestral programme in Italy with 8 to 10-year-olds. Fasano et al. report that the programme was particularly beneficial in reducing hyperactivity, inattention and impulsivity, whilst enhancing inhibitory control. These benefits are in line with research findings concerning successful music education with specific cases of young people with ADHD whose behavior is characterized by these same disruptive symptoms (hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity).

Extra-musical benefits are also reported in a study of college students (Bachelors and Masters) and amateur musicians in a joint Swiss-UK study. Antonini Philippe et al. suggest that, whilst music making can offer some health protective effects, there is a need for greater health awareness and promotion among advanced music students. Compared to the amateur musicians, the college music students evaluated their overall quality of life and general and physical health more negatively, as did females in terms of their psychological health. Somewhat paradoxically, the college students who had taken part in judged performances reported higher psychological health ratings. This may have been because this sub-group were slightly older and more experienced musicians.

Music appears to be a common accompaniment to exercise, whether in the gym, park or street. Nikol et al. in South East Asia explore the potential physical benefits of synchronous exercise to music, especially in hot and humid conditions. Their randomized cross-over study (2019) reports that “time-to-exhaustion” under the synchronous music condition was 2/3 longer compared to the no-music condition for the same participants. In addition, perceived exertion was significantly lower, by an average of 22% during the synchronous condition.

Comparisons between music and sport are often evidenced in the body of existing Frontiers research literature related to performance and group behaviors. Our new collection contains a contribution to this literature in a study by Habe et al. . The authors investigated elite musicians and top athletes in Slovenia in terms of their perceptions of flow in performance and satisfaction with life. The questionnaire data analyses suggest that the experience of flow appears to influence satisfaction with life in these high-functioning individuals, albeit with some variations related to discipline, participant sex and whether considering team or individual performance.

A more formal link between music and movement is the focus of an exploratory case study by Cirelli and Trehub . They investigated a 19-month-old infant's dance-like, motorically-complex responses to familiar and unfamiliar songs, presented at different speeds. Movements were faster for the more familiar items at their original tempo. The child had been observed previously as moving to music at the age of 6 months.

Finally, a novel UK-based study by Waddington-Jones et al. evaluated the impact of two professional composers who were tasked, individually, to lead a 4-month programme of group composing in two separate and diverse community settings—one with a choral group and the other in a residential home, both funded as part of a music programme for the Hull City of Culture in 2017. In addition to the two composers, the participants were older adults, with the residential group being joined by schoolchildren from a local Primary school to collaborate in a final performance. Qualitative data analyses provide evidence of multi-dimensional psychological benefits arising from the successful, group-focused music-making activities.

In summary, these studies demonstrate that engaging in musical activity can have a positive impact on health and well-being in a variety of ways and in a diverse range of contexts across the lifespan. Musical activities, whether focused on listening, being creative or re-creative, individual or collective, are infused with the potential to be therapeutic, developmental, enriching, and educational, with the caveat provided that such musical experiences are perceived to be engaging, meaningful and successful by those who participate.

Collectively, these studies also celebrate the multiplicity of ways in which music can be experienced. Reading across the articles might raise a question as to whether or not any particular type of musical experience is seen to be more beneficial compared with another. The answer, at least in part, is that the empirical evidence suggests that musical engagement comes in myriad forms along a continuum of more or less overt activity, embracing learning, performing, composing and improvising, as well as listening and appreciating. Furthermore, given the multidimensional neurological processing of musical experience, it seems reasonable to hypothesize that it is perhaps the level of emotional engagement in the activity that drives its degree of health and well-being efficacy as much as the activity's overt musical features. And therein are opportunities for further research!

Author Contributions

The editorial was drafted by GW and approved by the topic Co-editors. All authors listed have made a substantial, direct and intellectual contribution to the Edited Collection, and have approved this editorial for publication.

Conflict of Interest

The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.

Acknowledgments

We are very grateful to all the contributing authors and their participants for their positive engagement with this Frontiers Research Topic, and also for the Frontiers staff for their commitment and support in bringing this topic to press.

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Keywords: music, wider benefits, lifespan, health, well-being

Citation: Welch GF, Biasutti M, MacRitchie J, McPherson GE and Himonides E (2020) Editorial: The Impact of Music on Human Development and Well-Being. Front. Psychol. 11:1246. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.01246

Received: 12 January 2020; Accepted: 13 May 2020; Published: 17 June 2020.

Reviewed by:

Copyright © 2020 Welch, Biasutti, MacRitchie, McPherson and Himonides. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY) . The use, distribution or reproduction in other forums is permitted, provided the original author(s) and the copyright owner(s) are credited and that the original publication in this journal is cited, in accordance with accepted academic practice. No use, distribution or reproduction is permitted which does not comply with these terms.

*Correspondence: Graham F. Welch, graham.welch@ucl.ac.uk ; Michele Biasutti, michele.biasutti@unipd.it

Disclaimer: All claims expressed in this article are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of their affiliated organizations, or those of the publisher, the editors and the reviewers. Any product that may be evaluated in this article or claim that may be made by its manufacturer is not guaranteed or endorsed by the publisher.

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216 Awesome Music Topics That Will Inspire Your Thesis

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Writing A Research Paper About Music

So, what is music? Music is a form of art that uses sound and rhythm to create an emotional or aesthetic experience. It can be created by combining different elements such as melody, harmony, rhythm and timbre. Music is a universal language that can be found in all cultures and has been an important part of human history for thousands of years. It can evoke emotions, tell stories, and communicate ideas. Music can take many forms, including vocal or instrumental, solo or ensemble, live or recorded, and can be classified into various genres such as rock, pop, classical, jazz, and many more.

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Choose a music topic. Select a topic that interests you and that you have enough background knowledge on to research and write about. Conduct research. Use a variety of sources to gather information on your topic, including books, academic journals, online databases, and primary sources such as interviews or musical recordings. Organize your research. Once you have gathered enough information, organize your research into an outline or a mind map to help you visualize how your paper will flow. Write a thesis statement. Your thesis statement should be a concise statement that summarizes the main argument of your paper. Write a rough draft. Begin writing your paper using the information you have gathered and the outline or mind map you created. Focus on creating a clear and coherent argument, and be sure to cite all sources using the appropriate citation style. Help with coursework services can aid you in succeeding with this part. Revise and edit. Once you have completed a rough draft, revise and edit your paper to improve its clarity, organization, and coherence. Check for grammar and spelling errors, and make sure all citations are correct and properly formatted. Create a bibliography or works cited page. Include a list of all sources you used in your research, including books, articles, interviews, and recordings. Finalize your paper. After making all necessary revisions and edits, finalize your paper and ensure that it meets all the requirements set by your instructor or professor. Proofread everything and make sure it’s perfectly written. You don’t want to lose points over some typos, do you?

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The history and evolution of hip-hop culture
The impact of classical music on modern composers
The role of music in therapy for mental health
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The influence of traditional folk music on contemporary artists
The development of electronic music over the past decade
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The rise of K-pop and its global popularity
The effects of music on our learning abilities
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The influence of the Beatles on popular music
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The impact of music streaming on the music industry

Opinion Essay Music Topics

Music piracy: Should it be considered a serious crime?
Should music education be mandatory in schools?
Is autotune ruining the quality of music?
Are music awards shows still relevant in today’s industry?
Should music lyrics be censored for explicit content?
Is it fair that some musicians earn more money than others?
Is classical music still relevant in modern society?
Should music festivals have age restrictions for attendees?
Is it fair for musicians to be judged on their personal lives?
Is the current state of the music industry sustainable?
Should musicians be held accountable for the messages in their lyrics?
Is the role of the record label still important in the age of digital music?
Should musicians be able to express their political views in their music?
Does the use of music in movies and TV shows enhance or detract from the storytelling?

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The impact of music on athletic performance
The use of music in advertising and consumer behavior
The role of music in enhancing cognitive abilities
The effects of music on stress reduction and relaxation
The cultural significance of music in indigenous communities
The influence of music on fashion and style trends
The evolution of protest music and its impact on society
The effects of music on Alzheimer’s disease
The intersection of music and technology in the music industry
The effects of music on emotional intelligence and empathy
The cultural significance of hip hop music in the African diaspora
The influence of music on human behavior and decision-making
The effects of music on physical performance and exercise
The role of music in promoting social and political activism

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The effects of music on the brain and mental health
The impact of streaming on the music industry
The history and evolution of rap music
The cultural significance of traditional folk music
The use of music in video games to enhance the gaming experience
The role of music in religious and spiritual practices
The effects of music on memory and learning
The development of rock and roll in America
The intersection of music and politics in the 21st century
The cultural significance of country music in the South
The use of music in autism therapy
The impact of social media on music promotion and marketing
The influence of music on the LGBTQ+ community
The effects of music on social behavior and interaction

Argumentative Essay Topics About Music

Does music have a negative effect on behavior?
Is streaming music harming the music industry?
Can music censorship be justified in certain cases?
Is cultural appropriation a problem in the music industry?
Should musicians be held accountable for controversial lyrics?
Is autotune a helpful tool or a crutch for musicians?
Should music education be a required part of the curriculum?
Is the use of explicit lyrics in music harmful?
Should music festivals be required to have safety measures?
Does the use of profanity in music undermine its artistic value?
Can music be used to promote political messages effectively?
Should musicians be allowed to profit from tragedies?

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The rise of TikTok and its impact on music promotion
The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on UK music
The use of virtual concerts and live streaming during COVID-19
The influence of social media on music consumption and trends
The emergence of new genres and sub-genres in popular music
Talk about cancel culture in music
The debate over the use of explicit lyrics in music
The impact of climate change on music festivals and events
The use of artificial intelligence in music production and composition
The influence of music on political and social movements
The rise of female and non-binary artists in the music industry
The effects of globalization on the diversity of music around the world
The role of nostalgia in the popularity of music from past decades

Musical Topics About Famous Musicians

The life and legacy of Beethoven
The impact of Elvis Presley on rock and roll
The career and contributions of Bob Dylan
The influence of Michael Jackson on pop music
The musical evolution of Madonna over time
The enduring appeal of the Rolling Stones
The career of Prince and his impact on music
The contributions of David Bowie to pop culture
The iconic sound of Jimi Hendrix’s guitar
The impact of Whitney Houston on the music industry
The life and career of Freddie Mercury of Queen
The artistry and impact of Joni Mitchell
The groundbreaking work of Stevie Wonder in R&B
The musical legacy of the Beatles and their influence on pop music

Music Research Paper Topics For College

The cultural significance of the accordion in folk music
The use of sampling in hip-hop and electronic music production
The evolution of the drum kit in popular music
The significance of Taylor Swift in contemporary country-pop music
The effects of drug abuse in the music industry
The role of music in shaping political movements and protests
The impact of streaming services on the music industry and artists’ income
The significance of the Burning Man festival in music and culture
The emergence and growth of Afrobeat music globally
The role of musical collaboration in the creation of new music genres
The use of autotune and other vocal processing tools in pop music
The effects of social and political issues on rap music lyrics
The significance of the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in pop culture
The impact of music on emotional regulation and mental health

Our Controversial Music Topics

The controversy of the “cancel culture” in US music
The impact of music piracy on the industry and artists
The ethical concerns of music sampling without permission
The controversy surrounding lip-syncing during live performances
The debate over the authenticity of auto-tune in music
The controversy surrounding the use of profanity in music
The debate over the cultural appropriation of music styles
The controversy surrounding music festivals and their impact on local communities
The debate over the role of music in promoting violence and aggression
The controversy surrounding the ownership of an artist’s discography
The ethical concerns of musicians profiting from songs about tragedies and disasters

Captivating Music Thesis Topics

The role of music in promoting social justice
The impact of music streaming on album sales
The significance of lyrics in contemporary pop music
The evolution of heavy metal music over time
The influence of gospel music on rock and roll
The effects of music education on cognitive development
The cultural significance of hip-hop music in America
The role of music in promoting environmental awareness and activism
The impact of music festivals on local economies
The evolution of country music and its impact on popular music
The use of music in advertising and marketing strategies

Classical Music Topic Ideas

The influence of Baroque music on classical music
The history and evolution of the symphony orchestra
The career and legacy of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
The significance of Ludwig van Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony
The evolution of opera as an art form
The role of women composers in classical music history
The impact of the Romantic era on classical music
The use of program music to tell a story through music
The significance of the concerto in classical music
The influence of Johann Sebastian Bach on classical music
The contributions of Antonio Vivaldi to the concerto form
The use of counterpoint in classical music composition
The role of chamber music in classical music history
The significance of George Frideric Handel’s Messiah in classical music

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The history and evolution of the piano as a musical instrument
The significance of Beethoven in classical music
The impact of Elvis Presley on US music
The emergence and growth of the hip-hop music genre
The role of music festivals in contemporary music culture
The effects of technology on music production and performance
The influence of social media on music promotion and distribution
The effects of music on mental health and well-being
The role of music in popular culture and media
The impact of musical soundtracks on movies and TV shows
The use of music therapy for individuals with autism spectrum disorder
The significance of the Coachella Music Festival in modern music culture
The cultural significance of the ukulele in Hawaiian culture

Awesome Music Research Questions For 2023

Should musicians be required to use their platform to promote social justice causes?
Is music piracy a victimless crime or does it harm the industry?
Should music venues be required to provide safe spaces for concertgoers?
Is the Grammy Awards selection process biased towards mainstream artists?
Should music streaming services pay musicians higher royalties?
Is it appropriate for music to be used in political campaign advertisements?
Should music journalists be required to disclose their personal biases in reviews?
Is it ethical for musicians to profit from songs about tragedies and disasters?
Should music education be funded equally across all schools and districts?
Is it fair for record labels to own the rights to an artist’s entire discography?
Should music festivals have more diverse and inclusive lineups?
Should musicians be allowed to use drugs and alcohol as part of their creative process?

Fantastic Music Topics For Research

The evolution of the electric guitar in rock music
The cultural significance of the sitar in Indian music
The impact of synthesizers on contemporary music production
The use of technology in the creation and performance of music
The influence of Beyoncé on modern pop music
The significance of Kendrick Lamar in contemporary rap music
The effects of misogyny and sexism in the rap music industry
The emergence and growth of K-pop music globally
The significance of Coachella Music Festival in the music industry
The history and evolution of the Woodstock Music Festival
The impact of music festivals on tourism and local economies
The role of music festivals in shaping music trends and culture
The effects of music piracy on the music industry
The impact of social media on the promotion and distribution of music
The role of music in the Black Lives Matter movement

Catchy Music Related Research Topics

Is hip-hop culture beneficial or harmful to society?
Is it ethical to sample music without permission?
Should music streaming services censor explicit content?
Is auto-tune a valid musical technique or a crutch?
Does the music industry unfairly exploit young artists?
Should radio stations be required to play a certain percentage of local music?
Is the practice of lip-syncing during live performances acceptable?
Is music education undervalued and underfunded in schools?
Does the use of profanity in music contribute to a decline in society?
Should music venues be held accountable for the safety of concertgoers?

Informative Speech Topics About Music

The history and evolution of jazz music
The cultural significance of classical music in Europe
The origins and development of blues music in America
The influence of Latin American music on American popular music
The impact of technology on music production and distribution
The role of music in expressing emotions and feelings
The effects of music therapy on mental health and wellbeing
The cultural significance of traditional music in Africa
The use of music in films and television to create mood and atmosphere
The influence of the Beatles on popular music and culture
The evolution of electronic dance music (EDM)
The role of music in promoting cultural diversity and unity
The impact of social media on the music industry and fan culture

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Music Research Topics: 40 Topic Examples for Paper or Essay

Music Research Paper Topic Examples

Music is a universal language that transcends borders and cultures, touching the depths of human emotions and shaping societies throughout history.

It is a dynamic field with many facets, making it a fascinating subject for research and exploration.

This article provides a treasure trove of music research topics. Each topic offers a unique lens through which researchers can analyze the art form that harmonizes our world.

40 Topic Examples for Paper or Essay

The Impact of Climate Change on Coastal Ecosystems
Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare: Challenges and Opportunities
The History and Significance of the Suffragette Movement
Cybersecurity Threats in the Age of Digital Transformation
The Influence of Social Media on Mental Health
The Role of Women in STEM: Breaking Barriers
The Economics of Renewable Energy Adoption
The Evolution of Urbanization and Its Effects on Society
The Cultural Significance of Traditional Foods
The Globalization of Pop Culture: A Double-Edged Sword
The Ethics of Genetic Engineering and Designer Babies
The Impact of Mass Media on Political Discourse
The Art of Storytelling: Its Power in Literature and Film
Environmental Conservation and Biodiversity Preservation
The Influence of Music on Emotions and Behavior
The Role of NGOs in International Development
The Future of Space Exploration and Colonization
The Psychology of Addiction: Causes and Treatment
The Evolution of Artificial Life: From Turing to Deep Learning
The Importance of Financial Literacy in Modern Society
The Historical Development of Human Rights
The Impact of E-Commerce on Traditional Retail
The Intersection of Art and Technology in the Digital Age
The Rise of Populism and Its Implications for Democracy
The Benefits and Challenges of Remote Work
The Cultural Significance of Festivals and Celebrations
The Philosophy of Mind: Dualism vs. Materialism
The Influence of Gaming on Cognitive Skills and Social Behavior
The Role of Education in Promoting Gender Equality
The Implications of 5G Technology on Communication
The Ethical Considerations in Animal Testing
The Evolution of Language and Communication
The Impact of Artificial Sweeteners on Health
The Cultural Exchange in World Literature
The Challenges of Cyberbullying and Online Harassment
The Role of Sports in Building Character and Leadership
The Importance of Early Childhood Education
The Psychological Effects of Color on Human Behavior
The Intersection of Religion and Science: Debates and Harmonies
The Socioeconomic Impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic

How to Write a Good Music Research Paper

1. introduction.

Engage the reader with a compelling start. You can use an anecdote, a thought-provoking quote, or an interesting fact related to your music research topic. The goal is to pique the reader’s interest and encourage them to continue reading.

Provide context for your research topic and explain its significance. This is where you introduce the broader issues or themes related to your case and explain why it’s worth studying.

State your primary research question or thesis. This is the heart of your introduction, where you clearly define the specific focus of your research.

Briefly outline the scope of your paper and the topics you will cover. Give readers an overview of what to expect in the coming sections.

Present your central argument or hypothesis. This statement should be concise and clear, summarizing the main point of your research.

2. Literature Review

A literature review is a critical component of research, as it provides an essential foundation for a study. It serves to summarize existing knowledge, identify gaps, and establish the context for the research.

After reviewing relevant literature, researchers can build on past work, avoid redundancy, and ensure that their research contributes new insights.

It also helps in shaping research questions, theoretical frameworks, and methodologies. A comprehensive literature review adds credibility and depth to research, making it an indispensable step in the research process.

3. Methodology

The methodology section outlines the systematic approach used to conduct the research, ensuring its rigor and applicability.

Data will be collected from a diverse sample of participants through structured surveys and in-depth interviews.

The study aims to recruit participants with varied musical backgrounds, age groups, and experiences to gain a comprehensive perspective.

Quantitative data will undergo statistical analysis, while qualitative data will be thematically coded to unearth patterns and insights.

4. Analysis and Findings

In this section, you present the outcomes of your research, for instance, on the psychological and emotional effects of music.

Your quantitative analysis reveals significant correlations between musical genres and distinct emotional responses.

Notably, participants report should elevate feelings of joy, nostalgia, and relaxation in response to specific genres.

The qualitative findings should enrich your understanding, emphasizing the significance of individual preferences and contextual factors in shaping emotional experiences.

5. Discussion

Here, you interpret the implications of your findings, demonstrating music’s profound impact on emotional well-being and cognitive processes.

The observed correlations between specific musical genres and emotional states underscore the therapeutic potential of music, offering new avenues for stress reduction and memory enhancement.

Mostly, this substantiates your central thesis that music is a potent tool for improving mental and emotional health, supporting the idea that it extends beyond entertainment.

However, it is crucial to acknowledge the study’s limitations, including potential biases in self-reporting and the cross-sectional design.

6. Conclusion

In the conclusion section, the research should shed light on the remarkable influence of music on human psychology.

Your findings highlight music’s significant role in shaping emotional well-being and cognitive processes.

Specific musical genres should evoke distinct emotional responses, indicating music’s potential for therapeutic applications in stress reduction and memory enhancement.

The study should underscore the need for a deeper understanding of the intricate relationship between music and the human psyche.

After harnessing music’s emotional and cognitive effects, you can explore innovative interventions to enhance psychological well-being.

While your research provides valuable insights, it is essential to acknowledge its limitations and encourage further investigation into the multifaceted dimensions of music’s impact on the human experience.

7. References

References validate the credibility and academic rigor of your research. After citing reputable sources, you demonstrate that your work is built on a foundation of established knowledge and research within the field.

References provide evidence to support your arguments and claims. They show that your research is based not solely on your personal opinions but on existing and expert opinions.

Properly citing sources helps you avoid plagiarism, a serious academic offense. Plagiarism involves using someone else’s work without giving them credit, which can lead to academic penalties and damage your reputation.

References serve as a guide for readers interested in delving deeper into the topic. They can use your reference list to access the sources you consulted, promoting further learning and research.

References provide context for your research, allowing readers to see how your work fits within the broader academic conversation. This can help establish the significance of your research.

8. Appendices

Appendices are essential in research to provide additional information, such as raw data, charts, or lengthy explanations, without cluttering the main text.

They enhance comprehension and allow readers to explore details at their discretion.

9. Acknowledgments

Acknowledgments in research papers serve several vital purposes.

First and foremost, they express gratitude and recognition for the contributions of individuals, organizations, or institutions that supported the research.

Acknowledgments enhance transparency by disclosing financial support, resource access, or partnerships. They demonstrate ethical research practices and ensure that potential conflicts of interest are disclosed.

Acknowledgments play a vital role in maintaining research integrity, respecting intellectual contributions, and building a sense of academic community and collaboration.

Josh Jasen or JJ as we fondly call him, is a senior academic editor at Grade Bees in charge of the writing department. When not managing complex essays and academic writing tasks, Josh is busy advising students on how to pass assignments. In his spare time, he loves playing football or walking with his dog around the park.

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Music Research Topics

Published by Boni on October 31, 2022 October 31, 2022

Music is a highly influential aspect of our society today. It has been part of our lives for a long time now. As music evolves, everyone has their specific taste for a given genre, musical instrument or song. Some common genres may include hip-hop, rock, reggae or roots. The evolution of music has led to the subject being incorporated in the school curriculum.

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For any student pursuing a career in music, one of the important aspects of the degree is the research paper. Getting the right topic for your research essay is always a challenge to most students however, this article will have relevant examples you can get inspiration from.

Tips on how to Select the Best Music Research Paper Topic?

Choosing a good topic for any research paper is essential, especially if you aim to attain good results in your paper. The following tips will guide you in choosing the most appropriate music research topic.

1. Be clear on your topic

Be sure of your topic before starting to write your paper; this means that you should have adequate knowledge of what type of research you are planning to conduct. For example, if you plan to include information about the impact of music on criminal behavior, then be sure that you have sufficient knowledge about music in criminal behavior.

2. Use sources

Make sure that you have sufficient material to use in your paper. You should use sources such as books, journals, and websites containing information on the topic you plan to write about. These sources will help with your research, as they will provide well-written articles to develop your topic.

3. Develop sources

If you do not have any material to use in your paper, there are many places where you can get sources. In this case, you have to develop your sources. For example, if the topic is about the effect of music on plastic surgery, you can use research papers on medical concepts and statistics about plastic surgery performed by newspapers and magazines. You can also conduct interviews with experts in these areas of study; however, make sure that they are reliable.

4. Seek help from a professional

The professional help you should consider getting is that of a reviewer. A music research paper is more challenging than other academic papers; it requires greater attention to detail and a deeper understanding of your research topic. Therefore, you should get a professional from a reputable service to help you review your work before submitting it. Gudwriter has the best research paper essay writing service that gurantees you quality music research papers from our qulified team of experts.

Music Research Topics Examples

Below are some of the most popular music research topics:

Music History Research Topics

History is known for its accurate records, and this is also applicable to music research. For example, if you want to write a paper on the history of Broadway musicals, you should have information about the different shows produced in the past and their influences on performers. This will ensure that you get your paper done properly.

A list of topics relating to music history would include:

1. The history of the synthesizers

2. The history of music in the United States

3. The evolution of classical music

4. The history of pop music styles

5. The evolution of folk music in America

6. How technology has influenced the evolution of music styles

7. The development and influence of hip-hop

8. The history of European classical music

9. The history of African-American music

10. The history of Latin American music

11. The effect of the digital age on the evolution of music styles

Music Therapy Research Topics

These are brilliant essay topics that research on how therapeutic music can be in the society. Examples of these topics could be:

How does music treat psychological conditions?
How can you calm an individual using the theme?
What do people love most about classical music?
Does listening to music affect your effectiveness?
What is the impact of music as a subject in schools?
Can music help reduce stress?
Can an individual use music to heal eating disorders?
Why do most psychologists prefer using music when performing their work?
Can music lyrics help enhance your brain capacity?
Music and therapy
How does music help students in education?
Scientific research and music
How does music help learn psychology?
What music genre is written in different countries?
How music affects student’s productivity

Music Theory Topics

This music category is for the music theory lovers. It may help investigate the theories in music such as characteristics of music in different eras and crucial aspects of music in societies. Great examples may include:

Brilliant characteristics of Romantic-age songs
How music evolved in the Baroque Era
Who were the top compositors during the Romantic era?
Remarkable features of Baroque-age music
Uncovering symbols during the Renaissance-period music
How classical music relates to medical applications
Major music directions during the 20 th century
What are the crucial aspects of music?
History of modern hip-hop
Why is it that most intellectuals prefer rock music?

Music History Research Paper Topics

This is another field where you can find plenty of research topics to work on. History offers us the chance to examine and understand the origin of a particular music genre or issue related to music. You can pick any of the following topics for your music history research paper:

Origin of black music
History of musical instruments
What is the female impact on the jazz music genre?
Imperial Japanese and Chinese Music
Who created the music?
Music as it was used in the Holy Roman Empire
Main aspects of modernism music
How politics influenced music back then?
Modern music culture
Why are music studies important?
Conventional archetypes in music
How is music connected to important functions and events?
Genius of Bach
Folk music and how it impacts the population

Music Psychology Research Topics

Connecting psychology and music is not something new. However, the category has not been researched as it should be. Researchers have barely scratched the ground on the music psychology research topics. That is why this is a good topic to research on. Consider the following suggestions:

Are sound therapies efficient?
Does music education impact our abnormal activities in the brain?
Does music impact our state of mind, mood, and overall mental health?
How tones affect mental development in teens, children, and toddlers
How does playing a piano enhance communication skills of individuals with communication issues?
What are cultural differences in music?
Changes in music consumption patterns in young people
How has music changed how students think and act?
Can music enhance your sleep at night?
Does a specific genre of music champion for drug abuse that affects our psychology?

Classical Music Research Topics

For the classical sounds’ lovers, this is the category to research on. You can research on how this music works, when it started, its history, and the traits of the listeners. Below are some common example topics to pick from:

What songs fall under the classical genre?
What is the history of the classical music category?
Is classical music impactful today?
What role does classical sound play in Disney production?
Most impactful classical projects
Character traits of classical music listeners
Role of women in the classical genre
Are classical sounds and metal the same?
How modern melodies differ from classical music
Why is Mozart different from other composers in the classical genre

Music Thesis Topics

Other excellent research topics you can handle include the music thesis topics. These topics typically cover a wide range of areas in the music field from analysis of specific genres to examination of cultural implications. Examples may include:

A comparative study of traditional music practices in different ethnic communities
The psychological effects of listening to music on emotional well-being and mood regulation
What is music’s role in the LGBTQ+ community?
Examining how music is a catalyst for change in the Hip-Hop culture
Investigating effects of music training on neural development and cognitive abilities
The impact of live music performances on audience emotional response and engagement
Use of music as a mnemonic device
What role does music play in promoting cognitive development in children?
A comparative study of traditional and digital distribution models
Tracing the origin of jazz music and its influences from African Roots to modern interpretations
Examining female empowerment in pop music lyrics

Music Controversial Topics

Popular music is always being criticized and is often the focus of research discussions. While this is normal and not uncommon, such criticism can also be turned into a paper used in studies. Below are some examples of topics related to popular music research:

1. The use of information technology (IT) in today’s music industry

2. The politics behind the use of the word “pop” in mainstream U.S. pop culture

3. The effect of hip-hop on today’s society

4. The origins of dance music

5. The use of metaphors in today’s music

6. The role of the internet in pop music

7. The effect of lyrics on the music style

8. The impact of sex and drugs in the creation of pop music and its stereotypes

9. The influence of the Beatles on other bands and musicians

10. How racism affected black musicians during the 1960s and has affected them today

Music Argument Topics

This type of music research focuses on the use of statistical analysis, as well as on other methods such as opinion surveys and field studies. Below are some examples of argumentative research topics:

1. The evolution of music piracy over time

2. The impact of digital piracy on the evolution of music and other elements related to it

3. How access to free, illegally downloaded music has affected the sales of CDs and records

4. The effect of parental guidance on censorship in music lyrics

5. The role that education systems worldwide play in the promotion or censoring of certain genres

6. The importance and effectiveness of copyright laws in preventing illegal downloads

7. The impact of music piracy on the global music market

8. How the evolution of technology has affected the sales of CDs and records

9. The effect of global warming on musical genres

10. The dangers that peer-to-peer networks pose to the online security of users’ computers

Learn the basic steps to follow in writing your research paper .

Hip-Hop Research Topics

Hip-hop is a music style that originated in the United States. Its popularity has spread globally, and its music is easily recognized nowadays. It is based on African American tradition and culture, and its roots can be traced to the blues music of the 1960s. The strong beat in hip-hop music was influenced by the funk music that was popular then.

Depending on your interest, you can conduct research on a wide range of topics related to hip hop; these include, but are not limited to:

1. The history of hip hop

2. The origins of hip-hop and its influences on the world’s culture

3. The impact of hip-hop on various aspects of society, including politics, music, and language

4. How hip hop has influenced the evolution of music styles around the world

5. The effect that hip hop and other forms of music have had on other aspects of culture around the world

6. The effect that social change, technology, and political powers have had on hip-hop culture

7. The effect of hip-hop on the body image of women

8. The impact of hip-hop on the culture around the world

9. How hip hop has affected the media and its portrayal of women

10. The use of sampling in pop music genres

Debatable Music Topics

Debatable topics are those that people have different feelings about. For example, while some people think rap music is harmful to children, others believe it’s a positive influence in their lives. The same applies to other genres of music.

Below are several examples of debatable music topics:

1. The impact of MP3s and peer-to-peer networks on the sales of CDs and records

2. The effects of hip-hop on society and its stereotypes

3. The psychology behind the creation of pop music

4. The use of sampling in pop music genres

5. The impact of sex and drugs in the creation of pop music and its stereotypes

6. The role that education systems worldwide play in the promotion or censoring of certain genres

7. The effect of media censorship on hip-hop culture

8. The influence of the law on music genres, such as hip-hop, rap, and rock-and-roll

Music Appreciation Research Topics

Many people enjoy music and want to learn more about worldwide music styles. If you are interested in pursuing a music appreciation research topic, here are some additional topics that you may explore:

1. The history of music and how it has changed the world

2. How pop music styles differ from one country to another

3. The effects of global warming on musical genres

4. How hip-hop has shaped modern culture, such as language and fashion

5. The impact of social change on the emergence and development of new music styles and genres

6. How the internet has influenced the evolution of music styles

7. The use of metaphors in music

8. How technology has influenced the evolution of music styles

9. The impact of hip-hop on modern society, including politics and language

10. How African-American music has shaped modern cultures, such as language and fashion

Music Education Research Topics

If you are a student in a music program, you can research your music skills and improve them. Here are several ideas for topics that you could discuss:

1. The effect of hip-hop on education and its impact on the language spoken by children

2. The history of rap music, from its roots to modern times

3. The composition of rhythm and blues songs and their histories

4. The musical arrangement of rap songs throughout history

5. The role that race plays in the creation of rap music

6. How sex and drugs affect the creation of pop music and influence its lyrics

7. The influence of rock-and-roll on other genres, such as jazz, blues, and country

8. The history of sampling and its importance in the creation of hip hop

9. The history of copyright laws and their impact on musical piracy

Pop Culture Research Topics

You can research pop culture’s appeal, from films and television shows to music. Below are examples of topics that may interest you:

1. The history of film, including horror and action movies

2. The psychology behind the creation of pop music and its components

3. The impact that different types of music have had on society, such as race and sex

4. How technology has influenced the evolution of music styles throughout history

5. The role that education systems worldwide play in the promotion or censoring of certain genres

6. The creativity involved in the composition and arrangement of pop songs

7. How pop culture has influenced language around the world

8. The history of hip-hop and its impact on modern languages

9. How African-American music has shaped modern cultures, such as language and fashion

10. The history of sampling and its importance in the creation of hip hop

Rap Topics Ideas

Many people enjoy listening to rap music. If you are interested in learning more about this genre, here are several topics that you may discuss:

1. How rap music has evolved throughout history

2. The role that sampling has played in the creation of various hip-hop styles

3. How societal changes have affected rap music and its lyrics

4. How sampling has influenced modern music styles around the world

5. The evolution of hip-hop, including its impact on popular culture

6. How rap music has influenced the language of African-Americans

7. The political overtones behind rap music and its impact on modern society

8. The effect that sex and drugs have had on the creation of rap music and its content

If you are interested in pursuing a research topic about music, you now have several ideas to help guide you. Remember that topics should be able to answer your research questions, so make sure to explore those ideas thoroughly.

You should also remember that research is an opportunity for personal growth. If you take the time to conduct thorough research and include quality sources in your project, you will learn more about these topics and yourself.

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This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

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Singing researchers find cross-cultural patterns in music and language

by Max Planck Society

Are acoustic features of music and spoken language shared across cultures? Researchers from the Max Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics in Nijmegen have contributed to a global study of music and speech, published in Science Advances .

An international team of researchers recorded themselves performing traditional music and speaking in their native language . In all 50+ languages, the rhythms of songs and instrumental melodies were slower than those of speech , while the pitches were higher and more stable.

Language and music may share evolutionary functions. Both speech and song have features such as rhythm and pitch. But are similarities and differences between speech and song shared across cultures?

To investigate this question, 75 researchers—speaking 55 languages—were recruited across Asia, Africa, the Americas, Europe and the Pacific. Among them were experts in ethnomusicology, music psychology, linguistics, and evolutionary biology. The researchers were asked to sing, perform instrumentals, recite lyrics and verbally describe songs. The resulting audio samples were analyzed for features such as pitch, timbre and rhythm.

The study provides "strong evidence for cross-cultural regularities," according to senior author Patrick Savage of Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland, a psychologist and musicologist who sang "Scarborough Fair."

MPI's Limor Raviv, co-author on the study, recorded the Hebrew song "Yerushalayim Shel Zahav." Fellow author Andrea Ravignani from the MPI recorded the Italian song "Bella Ciao," playing the saxophone. The collection also featured the Dutch songs "Hoor de wind waait" and "Dikkertje Dap."

Speculating on underlying reasons for the cross-cultural similarities, Savage suggests songs are more predictably regular than speech because they are used to facilitate synchronization and social bonding.

"Slow, regular, predictable melodies make it easier for us to sing together in large groups," he says. "We're trying to shed light on the cultural and biological evolution of two systems that make us human: music and language."

Journal information: Science Advances

Provided by Max Planck Society

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111 Music Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

Inside This Article

Music is a universal language that has the power to evoke emotions, inspire creativity, and connect people from all walks of life. Whether you are a music student looking for essay topics, or simply someone who is passionate about music and wants to explore different aspects of it, we have compiled a list of 111 music essay topic ideas and examples to help you get started.

The evolution of hip hop music in American culture
The impact of technology on the music industry
The influence of classical music on modern compositions
The role of music in shaping identity and cultural heritage
The psychology of music and its effects on the brain
The power of protest music in social movements
The significance of music festivals in contemporary society
The role of music therapy in mental health treatment
The representation of gender and sexuality in popular music
The history and impact of rock and roll music
The intersection of music and fashion in pop culture
The globalization of music and its implications on cultural exchange
The role of music education in fostering creativity and critical thinking
The impact of social media on music promotion and distribution
The relationship between music and politics in the 21st century
The evolution of music genres over the decades
The influence of African music on Western popular music
The role of music in film and television soundtracks
The impact of streaming services on the music industry
The representation of race and ethnicity in music videos
The role of music in religious and spiritual practices
The history of music censorship and its implications on freedom of expression
The impact of music on memory and cognitive function
The representation of mental health issues in music lyrics
The role of music in promoting social justice and equality
The impact of music on consumer behavior and marketing strategies
The influence of technology on music production and composition
The relationship between music and dance in different cultures
The impact of music on emotions and mood regulation
The significance of live music performances in the digital age
The role of music in creating a sense of community and belonging
The representation of gender stereotypes in music lyrics
The influence of music on language development and communication skills
The impact of music on physical health and well-being
The role of music in expressing and processing emotions
The portrayal of love and relationships in music lyrics
The influence of music on fashion trends and style
The impact of music on social behavior and interpersonal relationships
The significance of music in rituals and ceremonies
The role of music in shaping national identity and patriotism
The representation of violence and conflict in music lyrics
The influence of music on memory and learning abilities
The impact of music on mood regulation and stress management
The role of music in promoting environmental awareness and sustainability
The portrayal of social issues and injustices in music lyrics
The influence of music on political activism and social movements
The significance of music in cultural celebrations and traditions
The role of music in fostering empathy and compassion
The representation of mental health struggles in music lyrics
The influence of music on consumer behavior and purchasing decisions
The role of music in promoting diversity and inclusivity
The portrayal of love and relationships in music videos
The impact of music on cognitive development and problem-solving skills
The significance of music in personal growth and self-discovery
The role of music in promoting peace and reconciliation
The representation of gender roles and stereotypes in music videos
The influence of music on memory retention and recall
The impact of music on emotional intelligence and social skills
The role of music in promoting cultural exchange and understanding
The portrayal of mental health issues in music videos
The influence of music on physical coordination and motor skills
The significance of music in spiritual practices and rituals
The role of music in fostering creativity and innovation
The representation of social injustices and inequalities in music lyrics
The impact of music on mood regulation and emotional well-being
The influence of music on decision-making and problem-solving abilities
The role of music in promoting social cohesion and unity
The portrayal of addiction and substance abuse in music videos
The significance of music in fostering empathy and compassion
The role of music in promoting mental health and well-being
The impact of music on physical health and stress management
The representation of social issues and injustices in music videos
The significance of music in fostering creativity and innovation
The portrayal of mental health struggles in music lyrics
The impact of music on memory retention and recall

These are just a few examples of the countless music essay topics that you can explore. Whether you are interested in the history of music, its cultural significance, its impact on society, or its psychological effects, there is a wide range of topics to choose from. So pick a topic that resonates with you, conduct thorough research, and let your passion for music shine through in your writing. Happy writing!

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Breaking down barriers in music research

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Ethnomusicologist and music analyst Leslie Tilley loves the idea of blurring genres and appreciating the beauty in all music.

“There are engaging things to find in any style of music. I’m constantly surprised by what you can do with music, and that is my favorite thing: to continue being surprised,” says Tilley, an associate professor of music at MIT. “Music is endlessly creative.”

But what about her personal music tastes?

“That’s the hardest question you can ask a musician,” says Tilley, laughing.

“I will listen to anything,” she says. “My alarm clock this morning was Dvorak’s Cello Concerto, and then I went for a walk listening to Bad Bunny. I nerd out listening to flamenco music, and then I talk to people about gamelan.”

Straddling the borders of music research

Tilley’s own musical playlist is as expansive as the scope of her ethnographic research, which examines the inherent processes and unspoken guidelines governing improvisation. Through her research, Tilley is doing her part to break down barriers within the field. Tilley was recently awarded the prestigious Emerging Scholar Award by the Society for Music Theory for her book “ Making It Up Together: The Art of Collective Improvisation in Balinese Music and Beyond .” The honor is of particular note given that Tilley is not a music theorist.

“Because I’m an ethnomusicologist who does music analysis, which is a smaller group of ethnomusicologists, I’ve always felt like I’m straddling the borders,” she says.

That is why she says this particular award is so gratifying — not just for the recognition of her work, but because of what it says about the walls coming down within the world of music research.

“That music theory decided to give an award to an ethnomusicologist who’s studying Balinese music, and using lots of Balinese and Indonesian music and ideas, it says really cool things about what’s happening in the field and how the divisions are fading, or being broken down by lots of scholars, not just me,” she says. “There are lots of people straddling the borders of these different sub-fields.”

Tilley’s book was published in 2019, and was the culmination of years of research.

“The book is about creating language so that people who study different improvised traditions can have a unified framework to talk about them, which didn’t exist before,” she adds.

Tilley says as she was writing the book, it took her in directions she didn’t expect.

“What I learned was just where all the intersections are if you zoomed the lens back a little bit more,” she says. “That there are all these amazing scholarly intersections where I know people who are writing about literature or people who are writing about the brain, and patterns. And all of these things can play into how I think about what musicians are doing. And that was really, really exciting for me.”

Teaching ‘music with a capital M’

Since joining the MIT faculty in 2015, Tilley has been sharing her passion for a diversity of musical practices with students. She has led the MIT Balinese gamelan, and teaches courses such as 21M.030 (Introduction to Musics of the World), 21M.051 (Fundamentals of Tonal Music), 21M.500 (Advanced Seminar in Music), and 21M.292 (Musics in Bali). Tilley says she designed her course 21M.053 (Rhythms of the World) as a re-imagined fundamentals of music course that explores musical concepts as cross-cultural and cross-genre phenomena: a chance for students to learn about “music with a capital M.”

Leslie Tilley in a classroom with her students, as she teaches in class. All are sitting cross-legged on the floor.

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“One hundred percent of the people in the world engage with music in some way,” she says. “And so, (students) all come with their own expertise. In a class like Rhythms of the World, where there's not a specific tradition that I'm teaching them about, they can bring their expertise. They can bring their own life experience into that space, and then grow from there. And then engage with other people's life experiences in ways that are very personal within music.”

One of her favorite parts of teaching is when she asks students to analyze a piece of music they’re interested in using the concepts and structures they’ve learned in Rhythms of the World.

“They’re listening across the board to anything and everything you can imagine,” she says. “Every semester I discover some cool new thing I didn’t know before, or an interesting style of music just based on what my students are listening to.”

Exploring cover songs

Tilley’s current research project is a book examining cover songs. She says that while that may seem like a left turn, it’s actually an extension of the research she’s been doing her entire career.

“What I’m interested in is: How do people take a musical thing and do something with it, and how do we think about the transformation of that thing? How does a musician take something and transform it into something else? And how can we talk about that in useful and multifaceted ways?” she says. “Considering the music itself, considering the musicians who are making it, considering the idiom that it's coming from or going to. Considering who's receiving it and how it’s being received. And how does all that play into what that transformation means?”

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15 Fun Music Topics to Research Ideas for Your Music Appreciation Class

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Finding music topics to research that your music appreciation class will love can be a challenge at times. Fortunately, there are plenty of exciting and interesting music topics to research and explore when it comes to music appreciation. This blog post is jam-packed with fun music topics and ideas that make great projects and assessments for your music class.

Most music topics to research fall under the following broader categories –

Musician of Composer Biography

Music History

Music theory, music genres, music of a culture, stylistic features of a genre, elements of music analysis.

History of Musical Instruments

Types of Music Ensembles

Instruments of a Culture

Musical Techniques for Performance

Musical techniques for composing, music festivals, music and technology, music for the stage.

5-simple-ways-to-makeover-your-music-curriculum-blog-image-2022

Read on to find out more details for each of these categories for music topics to research, but if you are looking for some more ways to spice up your own music curriculum, then why not grab yourself a FREE copy of the 5 Ways to Makeover Your Music Curriculum. Click here to find out more.

Musician or Composer Biography

One of the easiest and most used music topics to research in the music classroom is the biography of a famous composer throughout history. This type of music research topic can be done on any number of composers throughout history – from Beethoven to Mozart to Bach. Some of the most influential composers in history have left an indelible mark on music as we know it today. Your music students can explore the works of several famous composers from different eras and consider what made them unique and revolutionary for their time period.

If you are looking to use this type of music topic to research with your classes, there are several Bundles available in my TPT store. Use the link here to check them out – all the hard work has been done for you. All you need to do is choose a composer, which pages you want to complete, and you are ready to go! This type of music topics to research make great music research assignments.

Music Composer Bundle

Female Composer Bundle

Music Research Topic idea 3- Music Theory

Although Music Theory is not required knowledge for all musicians out there, exploring musical theory will give your music students a deeper insight into why certain chords sound better than others or what makes a melody memorable! This music research topic could incorporate any type of music theory and some broad music theory research topics include:

The History of Music Notation
Different Ways that Rhythm is Notated and Counted around the World
The Development of Music Scales
Music Scales from Around the World
Chord Progressions
Musical Form of a particular style – Sonata, Symphony, Jazz, Pop, Program Music, etc…

Music Research Topic idea 2- Music History

Another commonly used music topic to research is Music History, and typically the History of European Music. Exploring different time periods of music is a great way to introduce students to the vast range of sounds and styles within the world of music. For this type of music assignment try giving each student a different musical era to research its history, development, notable artists, and influence on other time periods. This is also an effective way to get students comfortable with using various sources for research.

The different musical eras that you could use as a music topic to research are:

Early Music to 1400
Middle Ages
Renaissance
20 th Century – 1900-2000
Modern 2000-present

Using Music Genres as a music topic to research can be incredibly broad for students, especially if your study is on contemporary music! For this type of music research topic or assignment try taking a closer look at subgenres within those broader categories such as punk rock or rap/hip hop. You can have your music students research where these subgenres originated from as well as any artists who helped popularize them within their respective scenes.

There are a couple of great websites that can help with this research. Be sure to check them out and try them with your classes. A word of warning – be prepared to go down the rabbit hole and lose a few hours of your time exploring these sites – they’re very interesting!!!!

This site is a long list of different musical genres
This site has links to music samples and playlists
This is another long list of genres, it is a bit easier to navigate, but you do need to create an account
This is another list site, but has lots of sub-genres and world music
This one is my personal favorite! It has music samples all linked and mapped. You just click on a style and a music sample plays. This one would be best for comparing different styles of music
This site has music mapped into a family tree – you can see where a style has it’s origins and influences
This music map site has parts to click to get reading passages on each music genre. It would be great to use for researching.

Music Research Topic idea 5- Music of a Culture

Introducing students to different musical cultures from around the globe is one way to show them how versatile and varied music from different regions can sound. Researching individual instruments from each culture allows students to understand how instrumentation contributes to the genre-specific sounds as well as how it has evolved over time due to technological advancements or cultural influences from around the world.

A suggested list of music topics to research for different cultures is below:

East Asia and Korea
Eastern Europe
Native American
Philippines
South America
Southeast Asia
Southwest and Central Asia
Western Europe and Scandinavia

If you are wanting to incorporate these world music research topics into your music classes, try the Music in Cultures Around the World Bundle

Music Research Topic idea 6- Stylistic Features of a Genre

Writing about music can be an interesting and creative task. With numerous music genres to draw from (see the list of websites above), there are a wealth of music topics to research and music topics for research papers that can provide a substantial focus for your music students. When exploring and researching the stylistic features of music genres, it’s beneficial to go beyond surface level observations. Your students should not only research the history and evolution of their chosen style, but also look at the artists and stylistic features that define the music genre. From the influence of other genres, instruments used, and the performers who have popularized certain sounds, researching the stylistic features of a genre provides an exciting opportunity for exploration.

Music Research Topic idea 7- Elements of Music Analysis

Music analysis using the Elements of Music is an extremely important skill for music students to cultivate and perfect. This type of music research assignment that focuses on music analysis can give your music students a chance to research music topics and apply their knowledge of music theory and composition in order to write about music.

For this type of music research assignment, your music students can choose any piece of music, musician, composer or music style that they want to study. Once they have chosen their area of focus, they can use the Elements of Music to guide their analysis of the music selected for study. By focusing on how each of the Elements of Music are used, your music students will help to improve their listening skills, performance and composition skills as well as their critical thinking and writing skills.

For more information about the Elements of Music read this Blog Post.

If you would like a set of “done for you” music analysis and music appreciation assignments using the Elements of Music, use the link here to check out this best-selling resource!

Music Research Topic idea 8- History of Musical Instruments

Learning about the history of musical instruments can be a fascinating way to explore different cultures and eras. One effective way for music students to learn more about music is to complete an assignment on the history of a musical instrument. This type of music assignment requires students to research music instruments in depth and develop an extended piece of writing on their findings. Through such music topics for research papers, it is possible to gain a better understanding of the methods of sound production by each instrument as well as the many ways that music has shaped society throughout the years. Choosing a unique music instrument such as Japanese drums or stringed instruments from around the world, makes writing about music fun and interesting. When you assign each student a different music research topic, this gives each student the opportunity to explore something specific and meaningful within the larger world of culture and music.

To make it easier for you try these two different Instrument Study resources from my TPT store

Orchestra Instrument Music Worksheets

Music Research Topic idea 9- Types of Music Ensembles

Music can often be a great topic to research and write about, especially music ensembles from around the world. Everything from traditional Chinese music to Bhangra music from India can be explored. Whether it’s the different instruments utilized in an Argentinean folk music ensemble, or the incredible rhythms found within Turkish music, anyone interested in writing about music will have a wealth of music research topics to explore. Even things that you may never have thought of like Candombe music from Uruguay or Soukous music from Congo can be investigated further and provide excellent context for a music research paper. By researching music ensembles from around the world, your music students can gain exceptional insights into cultural backgrounds as well as appreciate the variety of musical ensembles that exist across the world today.

Other types of Music Ensembles to Research include:
Small Ensembles – duets, trios, quartets, quintets
Rock Ensembles – different genres from the power trio to a rock big band
Jazz Music Ensembles – Jazz quartets, quintets to big bands
Vocal Ensembles – duets, trios, barbershop quartet, a capella groups and choirs
Classical Ensembles – string quartet, chamber orchestra to symphony orchestra
World Music Ensembles – Taiko drumming, Gamelan, Chinese Orchestra to different Folk Groups

Music Research Topic idea 10- Instruments of a Culture

Musical Instruments of a Culture

Music and instruments from cultures around the world are an intriguing and fascinating field of study. From ancient music that has been passed down through generations to music created in today’s modern era, there is no shortage of music topics for research and writing about music. Your music students can explore the instruments used for various music styles and genres ranging from traditional Indian classical music to reggae music in Jamaica. Studying the use of these instruments, how they are made, and the methods of sound production can provide an understanding of how different cultures view music and its importance within their society. It is also an opportunity to discover a range of sounds, techniques, and instrumentation collected from other countries and regions. Delving into music topics like these opens a unique way to appreciate artists from around the world by examining their use of traditional instruments to express their ideas, stories, cultures, beliefs, emotions, and experiences.

Try the World Instrument Music Worksheets to help you study Instruments of a Culture with your music classes.

Music Research Topic idea 11- Musical Techniques for Performance

Different musical instruments require different performance techniques and practice methods to develop a music student’s proficiency on their instrument. Researching music topics about their own instrument is therefore key to developing a well-rounded music knowledge and building a variety of musical performance skills that your music students can draw on to use in their own performances. When researching the performance techniques on an instrument, it is important to consider the various musical elements that factor into music-making for that instrument such as the different ways to make a sound unique. Additionally, looking at different music cultures that have similar instruments can provide perspective on the essential elements of music-making for any instrument. By researching these music topics and exploring music from diverse cultures, music genres and styles, young musicians can broaden their knowledge and refine their performance techniques.

Music Research Topic idea 12- Musical Techniques for Composing

For those interested in exploring music composition techniques for songwriting, there are a plethora of music topics to research. Experimentation with chord progressions, sound selection and structure can all lead to finding creative ways of writing music. From analyzing music theory and learning more about the basics of music notation to creating unique rhythms and melodies, there might be boundless music topics for research papers that require study and practice.

Your students could choose to study the compositional techniques used within a certain style or genre, or even study more closely about a composer. There are plenty of songs to observe in order to further understand how music works, no matter what area of study the student has chosen. Writing about music involves learning these elements as well as charting any personal progress over time to move closer to using these compositional techniques in their own songwriting.

Music Research Topic idea 13- Music Festivals

A music topic to research that is a little bit unusual would be to research music festivals. Music festivals have a long and varied history. From ancient music festivals that celebrated a variety of religious and cultural events, such as the Dionysius Festival in Athens, music festivals are still vital to many cultures around the world. Music festivals have grown exponentially since then and even today they continue to fascinate people globally.

Today, music festivals can range from traditional, classical music performances in concert halls all the way to modern music performances with huge stages and pyrotechnics at large outdoor concerts drawing tens of thousands of fans. Those looking to research this topic of music have a wealth of options. From legendary music composers or artists, music industry trends and the economic benefits, to exploring how music is used as a tool for activism, research on music festivals can be incredibly rewarding for any music student to study.

Music Research Topic idea 14- Music and Technology

The history of music technology has been a fascinating area of music research throughout the years. By exploring music topics related to music technology, your music students can learn more about the music we love and how it came to be. Writing about music technology can take several approaches; from a technical breakdown of specific instruments to an exploration of its roots in social movements, there are music topics for research on music technology spanning almost any interest. Investigating music technology and its influence on music as an artform and the history can open new perspectives into how music is created, performed, and enjoyed today.

Some music technology research topics include:

History of Recording
History of the Microphone
History of Electronic Instruments
History of Amplification
Or even try a music research topic explaining “How does a …. Work”?

Music Research Topic idea 15- Music for the Stage

Writing about and researching music can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to music for the stage. Depending on the specific topic your student chooses to research, music for theatre plays or musicals could range from orchestral and classical music pieces, to jazz and rock ensembles. In some cases, music for the stage could even be used as accompaniment for spoken words, stories or even dance. Regardless of what type of music is chosen to study, researching music topics about music for the stage allows your music students to further explore genres and understand how music is used in a theatrical context. By studying different types of music from various time periods and regions, your student’s music research paper will become more well-rounded and engaging.

Some Music for the Stage topics include:

Musical Theatre
Contemporary Dance

These 15 music research topics provide plenty of ideas for creating engaging lessons, research projects, and assignments that focus on both fundamental aspects of musical theory while still allowing room for creativity within each topic itself! Letting your students explore these music topics independently gives them access to invaluable information regarding various aspects related to making and enjoying great music regardless of its musical origin. So why not try one of these 15 fun music research topics with your music classes this year. By using some of these fun music research topics with your classes, you might find teaching music this way will help to ensure your class stays engaged while expanding their understanding of music appreciation!

Until next time

Happy Teaching

Julia from Jooya

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Lessons for the body in music and the land.

Nicole Alleyne (Photo by David Liebowitz)

For Yale senior Nicole Alleyne, the human body is a versatile instrument — a maker of music, a channel to the past, a tool for learning, and a link to the land. She has tapped into these potentials while inspiring others to do the same through her academic and extracurricular pursuits at Yale College and beyond.

Alleyne, a member of Ezra Stiles College, will graduate this year with a B.A. in American studies and a certificate in education studies. In both programs, she has focused on African American history and culture and its modern manifestations. Her senior project in American studies looked at African American spirituals “and how cultural memory lives through the body and through the voice in very intimate ways,” she said. It’s a connection she’s experienced firsthand as a member of the Yale Gospel Choir.

In her capstone project for the Education Studies program, Alleyne “reimagined” outdoor education with a focus on “connecting Black students to the land.” The history of lynchings and other racial violence associated with the woods has “ruptured the Black community’s relationship with the land,” said Alleyne; for this and other reasons, she said, Black students are underrepresented in outdoor education programs.

Alleyne did fieldwork for her “land-based pedagogy” project during a gap year, working at Camp Fire Wilani Outdoor School in Oregon, leading a natural science curriculum for 5 th -graders.

“ Something that is totally missing in traditional education is treating students’ bodies as active parts and interlocutors in their learning experience,” she said. “For instance, when learning about plant species, we were using our senses. We were looking or touching, smelling. … Your body has all of these tools in order to learn about the world. How can we use our bodies and these gifts in ways we might not be able to do in the classroom?”

At Yale, Alleyne has led excursions for the FOOT (First-Year Outdoor Orientation Trips) program and journeyed with fellow enthusiasts as a member of Yale Outdoors.

Alleyne hails from Augusta, Georgia. She discovered her affinity for the great outdoors during an 8 th -grade class trip to Pisgah National Forest in North Carolina. She attended high school in nearby Asheville, where she and a fellow student created Camp Good Trouble, an outdoor education program for local youth. The camp’s name was inspired by John Lewis, the late congressman and civil rights leader who famously advised students to “make good trouble, necessary trouble,” and who had visited to Alleyne’s own school. The program ran for two years before being derailed by the COVID pandemic.

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“ Make good trouble” has remained a mantra for Alleyne. She was a camp counselor for students with special needs at Camp IVEY in Georgia; co-facilitated an anti-oppression curricula as an intern for the GLIDE Center for Social Justice in San Francisco; and developed and led a peer-mentoring curriculum focused on social justice for Students Shoulder-to-Shoulder in Vail, Colorado.

It was through the latter organization — which aims to inspire and support generations of ethical leaders around the world — that Alleyne met Karambu Ringera, founder and president of the Tiriji Foundation, which runs a home in Meru, Kenya for children who have lost their parents. The foundation is now building an affiliated school, which will have an outdoor education component focusing on “decolonial land.” Ringera, who has become a mentor to Alleyne, has invited her to come to Kenya for a year to work on the project.

“ She said, ‘I want your help. I want your questions,’” recalled Alleyne, who received funding for the visit from Yale’s Charles P. Howland Fellowship. “We will be physically building the school while we're working on the curriculum, so it's very new. I’m just happy to be able to provide support.”

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5 Popular Education Beliefs That Aren’t Backed by Research

Making adjustments to these common misconceptions can turn dubious strategies into productive lessons, the research suggests.

Not every learning myth requires teachers to pull up stakes and start all over again—at least not entirely. There are some commonly held misconceptions that contain a nugget of wisdom but need to be tweaked in order to align with the science of learning.

Sometimes, in other words, you’re already halfway there. Here are five mostly myths, from the power of doodling to the motivating role of grades, that educators can quickly adjust and turn to their advantage.

1. Doodling Improves Focus and Learning

When we write about the power of drawing to learn, we often hear from readers who feel compelled to defend an old habit: “See, I told you that when I was doodling, I was still paying attention!” But doodling—which is commonly defined as “an aimless or casual scribble or sketch” and often consists of marginalia like cartoon characters, geometric patterns, or pastoral scenes—is distinct from what researchers call “task-related drawing.” And doodling, in this sense, is not associated with improvements in focus or academic outcomes.

In fact, both cognitive load theory and experimental studies are generally downbeat on doodling. Students who sketch complicated scenes or designs as they try to process a lesson on plate tectonics, according to the first theory, are engaging in competitive cognitive tasks and will generally underperform on both. Doodling, like all drawing, is cognitively intensive, involving complex feedback loops between visual, sensorimotor, attentional, and planning regions of the brain and body. Because our ability to process information is finite, drawing and learning about different things at the same time is a simple question of too much.

Research confirms the theory. A 2019 study pitted off-task doodling against typical learning activities like “task-related drawing” and writing. In three separate but related experiments, task-related drawing and writing beat out doodling in terms of recall—by margins as large as 300 percent. How to fix it: Sketching what you are actually learning—from representational drawings of cells or tectonic boundaries to the creation of concept maps and organizational drawings—is, in fact, a powerful learning strategy (see research here , here , and here ), and that applies “regardless of one’s artistic talent,” a 2018 study confirms. Try to harness a student’s passion for doodling by allowing them to submit academic sketches as work products. To get even more bang for your buck, ask them to annotate their drawings, or talk you through them—which will encode learning even more deeply, according to research .

2. Reading Aloud In Turn Improves Fluency

Often called round robin reading (RRR), I resorted to it when I taught years ago—and it appears that it’s still frequently used, judging from a 2019 blog by literacy expert Timothy Shanahan and comments on a 2022 Cult of Pedagogy post on the topic. Teachers deploy RRR—during which the whole class follows a text while students read sections consecutively—for good reasons: Arguably, the practice encourages student engagement, gives teachers the opportunity to gauge oral reading fluency, and has a built-in classroom management benefit as well. Students are generally silent and (superficially) attentive when a peer is reading.

But according to Shanahan, and the literacy professors Katherine Hilden and Jennifer Jones, the practice has long been frowned upon. In an influential 2012 review of relevant literature , Hilden and Jones cut straight to the point: “We know of no research evidence that supports the claim that RRR actually contributes to students becoming better readers, either in terms of their fluency or comprehension.”

In fact, RRR has plenty of problems. Individual students using RRR may accumulate less than three hours of oral reading time over the course of a year, according to Shanahan—and Hilden and Jones say that students who are following along during the activity tend to “subvocalize” as they track the reader, reducing their own internal reading speed unnecessarily. RRR also has the unfortunate effects of stigmatizing struggling readers, exposing new readers to dysfluent modeling, and failing to incorporate meaningful comprehension strategies.

How to fix it: Yes, reading out loud is necessary to teach fluency, according to Shanahan, but there are better methods. Pairing kids together to “read sections of the text aloud to each other (partner reading) and then discuss and answer your questions” is a good approach, he says, especially if teachers circulate to listen for problems.

More generally, reading strategies that model proper reading speed, pronunciation, and affect—while providing time for vocabulary review, repeated exposure to the text, and opportunities to summarize and discuss—can improve both fluency and comprehension.

A 2011 study , for example, demonstrated that combining choral reading—teachers and students read a text in unison (similar to echo reading )—with other activities like vocabulary review, teacher modeling, and follow-up discussion improved students’ decoding and fluency.

3. Talent Beats Persistence

It’s a common trap: Observers tend to rate people who appear to be naturally gifted at something more highly than those who admit they’ve worked hard to achieve success. Researchers call this the “ naturalness bias ,” and it shows up everywhere, from teachers evaluating students to bosses evaluating employees.

In reality, the opposite is more often true. “Popular lore tells us that genius is born, not made,” writes psychologist and widely cited researcher of human potential K. Anders Ericsson for the Harvard Business Review . “Scientific research, on the other hand, reveals that true expertise is mainly the product of years of intense practice and dedicated coaching.”

Experimental studies extend the point to academics: An influential 2019 study led by psychologists Brian Galla and Angela Duckworth, for example, found that high school GPA is a better predictor than the SAT of how likely students are to complete college on time. That’s because “grades are a very good index of your self-regulation—your ability to stick with things, your ability to regulate your impulses, your ability to delay gratification and work hard instead of goofing off,” said Duckworth in a 2020 interview with Edutopia .

How to fix it: All kids—even the ones who already excel in a discipline—benefit when teachers emphasize the importance of effort, perseverance, and growth. Consider praising students for their improvement instead of their raw scores; have students read about and then discuss the idea of neural plasticity; and consider assigning reports on the mistakes and growing pains of accomplished writers, scientists, and artists.

Try to incorporate rough-draft thinking in class, and think about taking risks yourself: The renowned writing teacher Kelly Gallagher, author of Readicide , regularly composes in front of his class to model his own tolerance for errors and redrafting.

4. Background Music (Always) Undermines Learning

It’s a fascinating and complex question: Can students successfully learn while background music is playing?

In some cases, it appears, background music can be a neutral to positive influence; in other scenarios, it’s clearly distracting. There are several factors at play in determining the outcomes.

A 2021 study clarifies that because music and language use some of the same neural circuitry—a finding that appears as early as infancy —“listening to lyrics of a familiar language may rely on the same cognitive resources as vocabulary learning,” and that can “lead to an overload of processing capacity and thus to an interference effect.” Other features of the music probably matter, too: Dramatic changes in a song’s rhythm, for example, or transitions from one song to the next often force the learning brain to reckon with irrelevant information. A 2018 research review confirms the general finding: Across 65 studies, background music consistently had a “small but reliably detrimental effect” on reading comprehension.

In some cases, however, music may aid learning. Neuroscience suggests that catchy melodies, for example, can boost a student’s mood—which might lead to significant positive effects on learning when motivation and concentration are paramount, a 2023 study found.

How to fix it: Basically, “music has two effects simultaneously that conflict with one another,” cognitive psychologist Daniel Willingham told Edutopia in 2023 —one distracting and the other arousing.

“If you’re doing work that’s not very demanding, having music on is probably fine”—and likely to motivate students to keep going, Willingham says . In those cases, try to stick to music that’s instrumental or familiar, in order to decrease the cognitive resources needed to process it. “But if you’re doing work that’s just somewhat difficult, the distraction is probably going to make music a negative overall,” Willingham adds.

5. Grades Are Motivating

Teachers are well aware that grading, as a system, has many flaws—but at least grades motivate students to try their hardest, right? Unfortunately, the research suggests that that’s largely not the case.

“Despite the conventional wisdom in education, grades don’t motivate students to do their best work, nor do they lead to better learning or performance,” write motivation researcher Chris Hulleman and science teacher Ian Kelleher in an article for Edutopia . A 2019 research review , meanwhile, revealed that when confronted by grades, written feedback, or nothing at all—students preferred the latter two to grades, suggesting that A–F rankings might actually have a net negative impact on motivation.

In another blow to grades, a 2018 analysis of university policies like pass/fail grading or narrative evaluations concluded that “grades enhanced anxiety and avoidance of challenging courses” but didn’t improve student motivation. Providing students with specific, actionable feedback, on the other hand, “promot[ed] trust between instructors and students,” leading to greater academic ambition.

How to fix it: While grades are still mandatory in most schools—and some form of rigorous assessment remains an imperative—educators might consider ways to de-emphasize them.

Some teachers choose to drop every student’s lowest grade , for example; allow students to retake a limited number of assessments each unit; or periodically give students the discretion to turn in “their best work” from a series of related assignments.

At King Middle School, in Portland, Maine , educators delay their release of grades until the end of the unit, an approach backed by a 2021 study that found that delayed grading—handing back personalized feedback days before releasing number or letter grades—can boost student performance on future assignments by two-thirds of a letter grade.

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'MUSIC map' reveals some brain cells age faster and are more prevalent in Alzheimer's

by University of California - San Diego

Engineers at the University of California San Diego have discovered that some brain cells age more rapidly than others, and they are disproportionately abundant in individuals afflicted with Alzheimer's disease. Additionally, researchers observed sex-specific differences in the aging process of certain brain cells, with the female cortex exhibiting a higher ratio of "old" oligodendrocytes to "old" neurons compared to the male cortex.

The discoveries were made possible by a new technique called MUSIC (multinucleic acid interaction mapping in single cells), which allows researchers to peek inside individual brain cells and map out interactions between chromatin—which is the tightly coiled form of DNA—and RNA. This technique enables researchers to visualize these interactions at single-cell resolution , as well as study how they influence gene expression .

The work is detailed in a paper published in Nature .

"MUSIC is a powerful tool that can allow us to dig deeper into the complexities of Alzheimer's disease," said study senior author Sheng Zhong, a professor in the Shu Chien-Gene Lay Department of Bioengineering at the UC San Diego Jacobs School of Engineering.

"The technology has the potential to help us uncover novel molecular mechanisms underlying Alzheimer's pathology, which could pave the way for more targeted therapeutic interventions and improved patient outcomes."

The human brain houses a complex network of cells that communicate and interact in intricate ways. Within each of these cells lies a dynamic interplay of genetic components, including chromatin and RNA, which dictate crucial cellular functions. As brain cells grow and age, these interactions between chromatin and RNA change. And within each cell, these complexes can vary widely, especially in mature cells. However, unraveling the nuances of these interactions has remained a formidable challenge.

Enter MUSIC, a cutting-edge tool that offers a window into the inner workings of individual brain cells. Using MUSIC, Zhong's team analyzed postmortem brain samples, specifically human frontal cortex tissues, obtained from 14 donors aged 59 years and older, some with Alzheimer's disease and some without.

They found that different types of brain cells exhibited distinct patterns of interactions between chromatin and RNA. Interestingly, cells with fewer short-range chromatin interactions tended to display signs of aging and Alzheimer's disease.

"With this transformative single-cell technology, we discovered that some brain cells are 'older' than others," said Zhong. Notably, individuals with Alzheimer's disease had a higher proportion of these older brain cells compared to healthy individuals, he explained.

Researchers say the discovery could aid in the development of new treatments for Alzheimer's disease.

"If we could identify the dysregulated genes in these aged cells and understand their functions in the local chromatin structure, we could also identify new potential therapeutic targets," said study co-first author Xingzhao Wen, a bioinformatics Ph.D. candidate in Zhong's lab.

The study also uncovered sex-specific differences in the aging of brain cells. In the cortex of female mice, researchers found a higher ratio of aged oligodendrocytes to aged neurons. Oligodendrocytes are a type of brain cell that provide a protective layer around neurons. Given their critical role in maintaining normal brain function, an increased prevalence of aged oligodendrocytes could potentially exacerbate cognitive decline.

"The disproportionate presence of old oligodendrocytes in the female cortex could shed new light on the increased risks of neurodegenerative and mental disorders observed in women," said Wen.

Next, the researchers will work on further optimizing MUSIC so that they can use it to identify factors—such as regulatory genes and gene circuits—that are responsible for the accelerated aging observed in specific brain cells .

"Subsequently, we will devise strategies to impede the activity of these genes or circuits, in the hopes of mitigating brain aging," said Zhong.

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Top 25 Outstanding Music Research Topics for Students of 2022 in 2022
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120 Music Research Paper Topics
Music Industry Research Paper Topics: The impact of streaming services on music consumption patterns. The role of social media in promoting and marketing music. The effects of piracy on the music industry. The influence of technology on music production and distribution. The relationship between music and mental health.
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Your music research paper could outline some of these factors that affect music consumer behavior and highlight their mechanism of action. 2. Hip-hop Culture and Its Effect on Teenage Behavior. In 2020, hip-hop and RnB had the highest streaming numbers, according to Statista.
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500+ Music Research Topics. March 25, 2024. by Muhammad Hassan. Music is a universal language that has the power to evoke emotions, bring people together, and express complex ideas and feelings. As a result, it has been the subject of extensive research and analysis across a wide range of fields, from psychology and neuroscience to sociology ...
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In a new study, researchers found universal features of songs across many cultures, suggesting that music evolved in our distant ancestors. A research team that comprised musicologists ...
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Journal of Research in Music Education is a quarterly, peer-reviewed journal comprising reports of original research related to music teaching and learning. The wide range of topics includes various aspects of music pedagogy, history, and philosophy, and addresses vocal, instrumental, and general music at all levels, from early childhood through adult.
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Music & Science is a new peer-reviewed open access online journal published by Sage in association with SEMPRE. The journal's point of departure is the idea that science—or, more accurately, the sciences—can help us to make sense of music and its significance in our lives. ... Sage Research Methods Supercharging research opens in new tab ...
Home
Full, study, piano, and vocal scores of music from the Middle Ages to the 21st century, available for use online or printed/saved to PDF. Online Audio: Naxos Music Library. Classical, world, jazz, and folk recordings, with biographical information, opera synopses and libretti, glossaries and pronunciation guides.
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The Journal of New Music Research (JNMR) publishes material which increases our understanding of music and musical processes by systematic, scientific and technological means. Research published in the journal is innovative, empirically grounded and often, but not exclusively, uses quantitative methods. Articles are both musically relevant and scientifically rigorous, giving full technical ...
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Research Studies in Music Education. This internationally peer-reviewed journal, published on behalf of SEMPRE, promotes the dissemination and discussion of high quality research in music and music education. The journal encourages the interrogation and development of a range of research methodologies and their application to diverse topics in ...
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Examine the arguments for both sides and take a position. 17. Look into the sociology of tribute bands and consider the reasons that people would dedicate their lives to imitating other musicians ...
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Frontiers
Music is one of the most universal ways of expression and communication for humankind and is present in the everyday lives of people of all ages and from all cultures around the world (Mehr et al., 2019).Hence, it seems more appropriate to talk about musics (plural) rather than in the singular (Goble, 2015).Furthermore, research by anthropologists as well as ethnomusicologists suggests that ...
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Music even shows promise in preventing injury: A study by Annapolis, Maryland-based neurologic music therapist Kerry Devlin and colleagues showed that music therapy can help older adults with Parkinson's disease and other movement disorders improve their gait and reduce falls ( Current Neurology and Neuroscience Reports, Vol. 19, No. 11, 2019).
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Tilley's own musical playlist is as expansive as the scope of her ethnographic research, which examines the inherent processes and unspoken guidelines governing improvisation. Through her research, Tilley is doing her part to break down barriers within the field. Tilley was recently awarded the prestigious Emerging Scholar Award by the ...
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This music research topic could incorporate any type of music theory and some broad music theory research topics include: The History of Music Notation. Different Ways that Rhythm is Notated and Counted around the World. The Development of Music Scales. Music Scales from Around the World. Chord Progressions.
Music
When vinyl starts to look good again. Our tracking data from the end of last year shows that the size of the music downloading audience is larger than ever. In the American adult population alone, some 37% of internet users say they download music files online and 7% do so on a typica…. reportAug 28, 2008.
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Lessons for the body in music and the land. In her research, and in her work with young people, Nicole Alleyne has explored ways to strengthen the connection that Black students feel toward the land. For Yale senior Nicole Alleyne, the human body is a versatile instrument — a maker of music, a channel to the past, a tool for learning, and a ...
5 Popular Education Beliefs That Aren't Backed by Research
Try to harness a student's passion for doodling by allowing them to submit academic sketches as work products. To get even more bang for your buck, ask them to annotate their drawings, or talk you through them—which will encode learning even more deeply, according to research. 2. Reading Aloud In Turn Improves Fluency.
'MUSIC map' reveals some brain cells age faster and are more prevalent
DOI: 10.1038/s41586-024-07239-w. Engineers at the University of California San Diego have discovered that some brain cells age more rapidly than others, and they are disproportionately abundant in ...
Sonic Branding: Using Music and Audio as a Marketing Tool
You can still create a free account to access the latest from our online publication, ANA Magazine, receive content and special event offers through our newsletters, get breaking industry updates, and so much more. The content you're trying to see is available to: Discover everything the ANA can do to help drive growth for your organization.
Died: KODA, the Ghanaian Gospel Star Who Sang Hits Rebukin......
Topics & People. Theology & Spirituality; ... Research; Daily Briefing; Trending: Lent; Asbury University; ... It was a couple more years before KODA began playing music, an event he later ...

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