Emotion in music : a local perspective

Abstract

Music has been present since the dawn of human history. Music instils feelings and emotions within our being. We are surrounded by music that captures our attention and imagination. Why do people like music? Is there such a thing as 'emotion in music'? Can a piece of music bring out a certain emotion in the listener? Are our emotional reactions to music culturally bred or instinctual to human nature? Do songs reflect the inner nature or emotion of the persons creating it? How is emotion portrayed while composing, and how is it treated during production? This study analyses impressions of music professionals in Malta about 'emotion in music': their ideas on how it is conveyed, how it is received, its affect on persons as performers or listeners, where it came from, and their concern about the emotions they infuse in their work, to mention a few. Nine Maltese persons involved within four main musical areas ( conducting, composing, producing, DJing) were interviewed, and their answers were analysed. The emotional factor is undeniable, but certain nuances and difference of opinions can also be noticed throughout the study interviews reflecting the different personalities within the aforementioned musical areas.