The social power of music: A developmental perspective on the social effects of music-based activities and education programs

Abstract

Music is a universal phenomenon as well as a distinctive element of culture. In recent years, the social and unifying power of music has been revealed by numerous studies. Developmental research points to the early emergence of the social significance of music and shows that music facilitates the development of positive social attitudes and behaviors through different mechanisms starting in the first months of life. This article examines the recent developmental literature focusing on the social implications of music and reviews studies that explore the role of music in the early social and emotional communication, the social effects of music making and rhythmic synchronization and the importance of music in one’s social and cultural identity. The musical intervention and education programs developed in light of these findings to facilitate the social skills and attitudes of infants, children and youngsters are evaluated. Suggestions for better understanding of the targeted social implications of the music education programs are provided.