Tuning-in to tune out: Mediating engagement experiences with music on-the-go

Abstract

Music moves people. People physicalize movement- tap their feet, play “air-piano” or imagine gestures through the use of portable music devices. This research investigates the interplay between people and music in the context of a daily long commute and in relation to portable music player devices, such as headphones. The research employed qualitative methods to understand a listener’s lived experience through devices they use in commute. Results suggest the importance of presence and flow as features identified from people moving to music during a train commute, and it suggests how portable music devices may be adapted for commute.