Towards a Resonance-Oriented Music Mediation

A Theoretical Foundation of Vibrant Music Relationships

Abstract

This theoretical study establishes a theoretical framework for resonance-oriented music mediation, aimed at fostering strong music experiences. It introduces a model designed to conceptualize and analyze music mediation projects that seek to initiate, broaden and deepen music relationships. First, the understanding of music is discussed and it is explained how the fields of cultural studies, the capability approach and music sociology contribute to the theoretical foundation of music mediation. Music mediation is then discussed as an umbrella term encompassing diverse practices. The second section builds on Hartmut Rosa's (2016) resonance theory, which describes resonance as a dynamic, reciprocal interaction, to establish the core principles of resonance-oriented music mediation. The proposed model, informed by additional literature, delineates (1) four dimensions of resonant music relationships, (2) their defining characteristics, (3) favorable impulses, and (4) underlying principles. These theoretical findings are illustrated with a practical example. The article concludes with a discussion of the ethical implications of resonance-oriented music mediation, emphasizing the facilitation of vibrant and transformative music relationships.