Insights in Music and Culture
Archetypes of Transformation in Music, Myth, and Self-Development.
Archetypes are ancient instinctual patterns that influence human behaviours and emerge at critical times in our lives. They follow typical patterns, which is why they appear the world’s myths and art. What isn’t spoken about is their use in music- as sonic representations of psychological narratives. This article explores the use of archetypes in music and their relationship to ritual systems of transformation, used throughout cultures to aid personality and spiritual development. The article concludes by showing how these insights are developed within the Sound-Soul system, a unique ethos and approach to music and performance aimed at transformative experience.
Why we Move to Music: The Psychology of Rhythm and Entrainment
Summary
We are only beginning to understand that our ability to move to music is not a choice, but a biological necessity and evolutionary adaptation. Recent scientific research suggests that our ability to perceive rhythm is innate and fundamental, with benefits including better language and reading skills, boosted immune system functioning, enhanced anti-inflammatory properties that aid stress and ageing, social connection, and bonding. This article explores why we have adapted this capability and provides thought-provoking examples as to why cultures, religions, and modern music events have prioritised our need to move to music.
