The Balzan Musicology Project towards a global history of music, the study of global modernisation, and open questions for the future

Abstract

The contribution outlines the Balzan Musicology Project (2013-2017) and the published papers arising from its 14 international workshops on global music history. The approach of the project is described as post-eurocentric, uniting music history and ethnomusicology. 29 of the papers address processes of music and modernisation in many countries, pinpointing not only ‘Westernisation’ but also transculturalism and transnational media. Open questions for a future musicology concern the history concept itself, and the fair distribution of resources and sharing opportunities to all those concerned.

Keywords

• global history
• modernity
• transculturalism
• world music
• participation