Music & Human Connection: Leadership for Human Relationship

Created on 1st September 2021

Conference: The Asian Undergraduate Research Symposium (AURS2021)
Title: Music & Human Connection: Leadership for Human Relationship
Stream: Music, Musicology and Ethnomusicology
Presentation Type: Virtual Poster Presentation
Authors:
Chien Chin Yap, Soka University Japan, Japan

Abstract:

During a global crisis such as the pandemic, a lonely and socially isolating society led to a higher suicide rate and individuals with mental distress. In this time of crisis and change, what kind of leaders are needed? Can some hope be found in arts, specifically the arts? How do aesthetic leaders lead in this materialistic 21st century where civilians have lost their connection towards humanity? Aesthetic leadership is a leadership theory that connects to the five-human senses to collect aesthetical data that will be used to make decision making (Hansen et al., 2007). With the capability of music to foster stronger interpersonal characteristics and people skills, the aim of this research is to present how the fields of music and art develop leadership that contributes to stronger human relationships and community bonding. What is the impact of group music learning experiences on the development of leadership traits? This qualitative research touched on the lives of two music conductors with different backgrounds and countries. As the result of the analysis, two significant themes emerged: music generates community bonding and humanistic meaning, and music learning cultivates people skills and leadership variables. This research contributes to the field of music education for leadership development and sheds light on the discoveries of aesthetic leadership connecting to human relationships.