Gil Dhason
Pronouns: he/him/his
Research Mentor(s): Christie Finn, Research Administrator
Research Mentor School/College/Department: Classic Song Research Initiative, School of Music, Theatre & Dance
Presentation Date: Thursday, April 22, 2021
Session: Session 5 (3pm-3:50pm)
Breakout Room: Room 8
Presenter: 8
Abstract
Some of the most recognizable American music was written by a man named Stephen Foster. Though the world of popular music has changed and developed dramatically since the mid-19th century, Foster’s music lingers on in our collective memory as “folk music.” How could a 19th century man’s music retain such emotional power in current times? Research was done to understand why Foster’s music has survived into the 21st century, with articles and books on music, philosophy, and psychology used to explore why and how music makes humans feel the way we do. These parameters were used to analyze Stephen Foster’s parlour music, especially songs containing elements that might trigger sad or melancholic emotions. Many of his parlour songs were found to have lyrics that were sad and reminiscent of the past, though the songs that were analyzed (contradictorily) were in a major key. The combination of these factors give his music a sense of nostalgia. This nostalgia feeds into why people still listen to and cherish Foster’s music. It also must be noted that Stephen Foster’s music is a product of his own experiences, but the lyrics allow listeners to interpret the song to fit their own experiences. All of these attributes are why Stephen Foster’s music remains powerful in the 21st century.
Authors: Christie Finn, Gil Dhason
Research Method: Library/Archival/Internet Research
https://songofamerica.net/
