Drumming Up Health: A Case Study of Carleton University's West African Rhythm Ensemble

There is recent, compelling research that clearly documents the positive role that music-making plays in an individual’s and community's well-being (Stige 2006, Thaut 2013, Turino 2008). Rhythm, in particular, has been shown to connect people with each other, reduce stress and anxiety, and promote feelings of empathy and community (Berlyne 1971, Clift & Hancox 2010, Thaut, 2013). The vibrant and energetic experience of participating in a drum and dance ensemble underlines the powerful forces at play in participatory music, and the mental, physical and social health benefits it can provide. This thesis examines the ways in which participation in the Carleton University West African Rhythm ensemble contributes to positive health and well-being for the students involved. Through email and audio interviews, and written surveys, this case study provides persuasive evidence of the value of inclusion of this style of music and dance in educational, therapeutic and community settings.

Name thesis:degree_name

Master of Arts (M.A.)

Level thesis:degree_level

Master's

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Music and Culture

Grantor dc:publisher

Carleton University

Year dc:date.issued

2016

Author dc:creator

• Armstrong, Kathleen

Statement dc:rights

• Copyright © 2016 the author(s). Theses may be used for non-commercial research, educational, or related academic purposes only. Such uses include personal study, research, scholarship, and teaching. Theses may only be shared by linking to Carleton University Institutional Repository and no part may be used without proper attribution to the author. No part may be used for commercial purposes directly or indirectly via a for-profit platform; no adaptation or derivative works are permitted without consent from the copyright owner.

Language dc:language.iso

en

DOI

10.22215/etd/2016-11597

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:carleton.scholaris.ca:20.500.14718/38559