Hartmut Rosa’s theory of resonance has gained popularity over the last years. The theory is essentially a critique of modern society, particularly of the way that modern life has become increasingly disconnected from meaningful, authentic experiences. Resonance is proposed as an alternative framework for thinking about well-being, meaning, and social connection. Rosa highlights that a good life requires being connected to something beyond ourselves – a two-way movement between the individual and something else out there, in the world, as other people, nature, history, ideas – or music. Resonance is about being affected by something outside ourselves in a way that makes us respond in some form. Resonance is thus a profound yet elusive connection that shapes both ourselves and the world around us.
In recent years Rosa’s concepts, thinking and discussions have received increased attention in the field of music research. This research encompasses various musical contexts, including creative musical work, musical performance, and music listening practices, music education and music therapy. The discussions explore how we engage with music, i.e. how we relate to music and our being in the world together with others and nature in the tension between the alienation of modernity and experiences of resonance. We believe it is important to further investigate Rosa’s theories within music research in new and innovative ways.
Therefore, we are planning to publish an anthology on music research inspired by Rosa’s ideas. The anthology will be published in English, on the Norwegian publishing company Cappelen Damm Forskning which offers an Open Access platform. Please note that a publication fee may be charged to each author.
