Music and Motherhood: History, Healing, and Activism

History, Healing, and Activism Mothering and music are complex and universal events, the structure and function of each show remarkable variability across social domains and different cultures. Although motherhood studies and studies in music are each recognized as important areas of research, the blending of the two topics is a recent innovation. The chapters in this collection bring together artists and scholars in conversations about the multiple profound relationships that exist between music and mothering. The discussions are varied and exciting. Several of the chapters revolve around the challenges of mothering partnered with a musical career; others look at the affordances that music offers to mothers and children; and some of the chapters examine the ways in which music inspires social and political change, as well as acknowledging the rise of the mom rock phenomenon. “Music of Motherhood is a fascinating read—both an engaging set of short stories and also an academic gem. M. Joy Rose, Lynda Ross, and Jennifer Hartmann have put together an intriguing set of chapters involving a range of methodological approaches that span the range of insightful research to interesting and moving narratives. The book could just as easily be assigned reading for a music course or example of research methods as it could be a gift for a friend, parent, or musician.” — A. S. Cohen Miller, Assistant Professor, Co-Director of The Consortium of Gender Scholars, and Founder of The Motherscholar Project “Music of Motherhood gives a much-needed voice to women about motherhood and its relationship to music. Too often, women’s voices and experiences are devalued. The book’s rich tapestry of approaches offers readers a pathway to learn more about the important and many roles music plays in the lives and experiences of women.” — Ann M. Savage, Ph.D., Butler University “The blending of empirical research and personal experience and making the connection to and benefits of using music as therapy and medicine to express and heal cannot be denied. The book delves into and dissects the proven affects music has on every aspect of motherhood; pregnancy, labor, postpartum, trauma—including the everyday heroics of motherhood. It illuminates, engages, enlightens and inspires. I implore pregnant women to devour every word.” — Amy Simon, actress, playwright, writer, producer, and Cultural Herstorian.