PLACE, IDENTITY, AND SELF: PSYCHOGEOGRAPHY THROUGH THE LENS OF MUSICIANSHIP

Abstract

This dissertation examines the intersection of place, identity and musical expression. The purpose of this dissertation is to outline a three-concert performance project that examines the concept of psychogeography through the lens of musicianship. Each concert program centers on a specific area of psychogeography in relation to my life: my heritage, where I have lived, and the influence of place on one particular piece of music.This dissertation seeks to achieve two main objectives. The first is to demonstrate the influence of psychogeography on self, and therefore artistic expression. The second is to draw from my own heritage, musical lineage, and experience to create three thoughtfully curated concert programs that testify to the power of self-discovery and expression. Each performance encompasses an overarching thematic focus that ties each program and piece together. Researching the effects of psychogeography in relation to music and presenting these ideas through three performances has resulted in a deeper understanding of the connection between place and musical expression.