The role of musical practices in the formation of transnational identities among migrant communities

Abstract

This study examines the role of music in the construction of transnational identities among immigrant communities. With the rise of globalization and migration movements, the processes through which individuals and communities engage with multiple cultural contexts have become increasingly complex. In this context, music has evolved beyond merely an aesthetic form of expression to become a critical tool in identity construction and social integration. The research explores how the musical practices of immigrant communities carry the cultural elements of their places of origin into new living spaces, how these elements are transformed, and how new forms of identity emerge during this process. Additionally, the study investigates the contribution of musical practices to the social integration processes of immigrant individuals and the relationship of music with concepts such as cultural hybridity, resistance, and authenticity. The findings reveal that music functions as both a cultural bridge and an instrument of identity construction for immigrants, yet this process is context-specific and dynamic. The results of the study provide significant contributions to the literature on the relationship between music and identity, offering practical suggestions on how music can be effectively utilized as a tool in social integration processes. This research enables the development of a broader understanding of the role of music in the construction of transnational identities.