Explain what the difference is between being a participant and being an observer as
you do field research. What are some of the benefits and disadvantages to being
a participant in, or an observer of, a particular musical situation in the field? (Answers
may vary.)
What will be an ideal response?
• As a participant you actually perform in the musical situation you are studying; you will have the benefit of learning about the music you are studying from the inside, but as a participant you can lose your ability to have an objective overview.
• As an observer you forgo any participation and simply observe (and perhaps record) the music you are studying. This can save time, but your presence as an observer can be distracting and alter the musical situation you are trying to understand.
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