Conclusion

After having interviewed both musicians and those whose musical exposure mainly consists of listening to different sound pieces, I have uncovered a trend in attitudes towards the boundaries of musicking. While none were familiar with the term before I explained what I knew of it to them, the consensus seems to be that, on the surface, the term is good enough as it is. Some viewed musicking to be too broad, that any random encounters with music should not be included in such a process. Others felt that, just as this term was created recently, as both the music making and music consumption processes shift and transform, new terms will be created that will be more specific in their meaning, and will highlight more concrete aspects of the music process.

When applying the definition of music and musicking to biomusic, sonic weapons, and musical torture, the majority seemed to agree that a boundary should be added to separate music that exists for pleasure from sounds that are used to harm other people. Whether or not such a boundary will come to be remains unclear, but it has become apparent that music has an idealized definition that many identify with. Sounds that exist for the purpose of hurting or torturing others are not considered as music, even though they may be snippets or actual songs that people have listened to in their daily lives.

In addition, the effects of environment on listening experiences vary from person to person. Some felt that the loud and distracting ambient sounds of a busy setting enhanced their listening experience, and forced them to focus on the music I played for them. Others found that the most quiet environment was the best option as the music could take control of their senses easily. I found that I personally disagreed with their opinions in regards to which environments enhanced the song, and I realize that this can simply be attributed to a difference in interests, exposure, and personalities. The sounds I enjoy and think enhance a song or my life in general will not match what others believe will improve their listening experience or their overall quality of life because everyone is different, and everyone will have varying reactions to the sounds that exist and infiltrate their ears.