During Richard’s talk, he mentioned his work within different variations of disability groups and music bands. He expressed his shock when he first visited a punk rock gig for people with learning difficulties. This being his first-ever interaction within this environment he talked about how incredible and unique the music and the experience was. I went away and thought about this concept in great depth. Human positionality depicts their genre and area of music- however, it does not mean it’s the only thing you will ever like or know! So don’t settle! Richard’s previous experiences in the music scene prior to this were underground rock bands. Despite this being the same genre this was still a completely unique experience due to its members and the environment in which the gig was held. Music has no barrier or class structure, yet humans decide to put one there. Why should one genre decide your life path, attitude, fashion, or personality? This brought my attention to the music scene in the ’80s where “mods” and “rockers” formed a full physical and mental divide truly based on their genre of music. Richard’s interactions and close interest in disability music prove to me that despite your positionality genres and barriers can be knocked down as it is us who create them. Music can not always be liked by everyone but opinions over the years have formed blockades within society even on things that are entirely away from the music. I learned from this to never position myself within one area of music and to continue through life with an open ear to sound and music. Not allowing music to control you as a being but only to teach you is something that many people should think about. Positionality forms you as a person and what you surround yourself with. However, barriers should not be formed because of this.
Just another myblog.arts site