Music, Research and Activism: Prospects and Projects in Northern Europe

A radical exploration of how music educators and artists are using research as a tool for justice in an era of crisis and transformation.

Can music research drive social and ecological change? Music, Research, and Activism: Prospects and Projects in Northern Europe argues that it can—and must. This bold collection studies the emerging activist turn in music studies, where researchers and artists engage directly in public debates and cultural movements.

By questioning systemic inequalities in the music industry and exploring the role of music education in an era of climate crisis, the contributors to this volume reflect on how their work can serve eco-social justice. Drawing on their diverse experiences as educators, critics, DJs, producers, and community organizers, they offer a compelling vision of music research as an agent of transformation.

Rooted in the independent research network Suoni, this volume speaks to music scholars and students eager to rethink the role of music in shaping a more equitable world. Engaging and accessible, it challenges us to ask: What does social responsibility look like in music research today?
 

Kim Ramstedt is a researcher and educator at the University of Helsinki, Finland.

Susanna Välimäki is professor of art studies and head of musicology at the University of Helsinki, Finland.

Sini Mononen is an Academy Research Fellow (Research Council of Finland) at the University of Helsinki, Finland. They are all founding members of Suoni, a research association for activist music research.

Kaj Ahlsved is a music researcher, critic, and educator affiliated with Åbo Akademi University in Turku, Finland.