What does an ethnomusicologist study?

I love music and different cultures, and I stumbled upon ethnomusicology. What exactly does an ethnomusicologist do, and is it a viable career path after high school?

An ethnomusicologist studies music as a cultural and social experience. This field combines aspects of folklore, anthropology, and sociology with musicology to examine music's role in communities, histories, and the daily lives of people. As an ethnomusicologist, you'd most likely conduct research, conduct interviews, observe and participate in music practices, and analyze your findings to understand the music's cultural context and significance.

This can be a viable career path, but it's typically a specialized academic field requiring advanced study, often at the graduate level. While you may not be able to jump directly into an ethnomusicology career right after high school, there are paths you can take toward this field.

For example, majoring in music, anthropology, or a related field during undergraduate studies can be a great starting point. It could also be beneficial to learn about multiple musical styles and to take lessons in various instruments, as well as study languages and travel, if possible, to immerse yourself in various cultures.

Career paths can vary widely. Ethnomusicologists often work in academia—as professors, research scholars, or university administrators. Others may find employment within museums, cultural institutions, libraries, or arts organizations. If you're passionate about both music and society, ethnomusicology could indeed be a rewarding career path to explore.

Remember, it's never too early to start understanding your potential career path. Reach out to professionals in the field to get a real-world perspective on what it's like to work in ethnomusicology and to identify the steps to reach your career goals. Keep in mind that the path to this career might not be straightforward, but if you're passionate about it, the journey can be worth it.