High Notes In Hard Times: The Impact Of Ensemble Participation On The Well-Being Of 2SLGBTQ+ Musicians

Abstract

This study examines the impact of participation in music ensembles such as band and choir on the well-being of two-spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and other nonheterosexual and cisgender (2SLGBTQ+) identified musicians. 2SLGBTQ+ musicians with ensemble experience were asked to fill out a questionnaire on their experiences and perceived impacts of their participation. Conclusions were drawn from this data using constructivist grounded theory informed by queer anti-capitalism after responses were coded and grouped into themes for thematic analysis. This study propositions music ensemble as an informal queer space as well as differing effects as result of participation over different 2SLGBTQ+ demographics. This study concludes that music ensemble functions as a means to provide relief from capitalism as it is a place where queerness can be normalized instead of commodified.