Whether we know it or not, music is everywhere. Music gives us an escape from the bustle of life. Many times, we listen to music subconsciously For my musical setting, I decided to go to the Dunkin Donuts in Chapel Hill. At Dunkin Donuts, I have always felt a sense of comfort and tranquility that I could never find at the library, since the library is dead quiet. For me, music has always boosted my work ethic as it enhances my dopamine levels. When we observe music for an ethnomusicologist standpoint, we realize how often we overlook the treasure that is music. Since we are granted with the pleasure of countless genres of music, we take for granted the privilege that is to be able to listen to a piece that has had social and political influences. …show more content…
Occasionally, the workers start to dance, sing along to the lyrics, and laugh as they restock the shelves. I noticed they only did this when the store only had a couple of customers. When it was a packed house, they would lower the volume, creating background music. As the clientele cleared out, they would raise the volume of the music and enjoy themselves. I realized no matter what people are doing, whether it be work or studying or sitting down for a chat, music drives us. One customer simply bought a cup of coffee and would close his eyes as the Christmas music started to play, emitting a moment of reflection that is granted by music. A private moment that is observed by the public at Dunkin. As mentioned in Soundscapes: Exploring Music in a Changing World …show more content…
The last sentence in the quote is what I believe is at the core of being a successful and knowledgeable ethnomusicologist. The Dunkin Donuts in Chapel Hill has four booths and tiny circular tables set throughout the store with decorations depending on the holiday. This setting allows for very little privacy and for great amplification of the music. There were red and green lights placed along the ceiling and Santa Claus decorations graced the side of the counters. This added to the setting mood as you could smell the hot chocolate as it was being made, transporting me home rather than in a booth at