A qualitative study on the effect of the Kahramanmaraş earthquake on the musical climate

Abstract

Ecomusicology examines the relationship between music and the environment, adopting an interdisciplinary approach. This study aims to explore the impact of an earthquake on the musical preferences of survivors in Kahramanmaraş. This research is significant as it represents the first field study in this area. It aims to determine the changes in musical preferences of earthquake victims before and after the disaster, addressing how the earthquake influenced Kahramanmaraş’s musical climate. This qualitative study uses a case study design to evaluate the environmental effects on musical practices post-earthquake by examining the city’s musical identity and history. The participants include 18 individuals, split evenly between genders and age groups, with some having lost relatives in the earthquake. Data was collected using semi-structured interviews and documents, focusing on how music listening habits and preferences evolved before and after the earthquake. The study found that before the earthquake, music served as a means of relaxation and stress relief. After the earthquake, however, music’s role shifted towards desensitization. Participants, who frequently engaged with music and social media before the disaster, continued these practices post-earthquake, but with noticeable changes in their tendencies. Emotionality, sensitivity, and melancholy became more prominent in their musical preferences. The study revealed that post-earthquake, participants preferred more emotional and slow-tempo music, particularly arabesque. Music helped them forget their traumatic experiences and boosted their motivation. These findings suggest the need to diversify studies on natural disasters and music. The results can inform and improve musical approaches and practices, providing insights for future projects, research, and publications related to music in earthquake-affected regions, particularly Kahramanmaraş.

Keywords

• Music
• Musical climate
• Musical preference
• Music and emotion
• Earthquake

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