Beyond researcher as instrument: Researcher with instrument: musicking in qualitative data collection

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the use of an arts-based methodology in conducting a doctoral study on The Nile Project, an East African based musical collective. Despite some evidence that music is an effective tool for qualitative inquiry, there are few studies on its use, especially the use of musicking in the interview process.

Design/methodology/approach

The author used a qualitative and arts-based research approach.

Findings

Outcomes suggest that music may help to create an “in-between” space challenging researcher positionality and giving voice to the “researched.” Music also acted as a bridging agent encouraging open and honest dialogue and relationship building.

Research limitations/implications

Findings suggest that music may be a useful tool for researchers interested in arts-based and participatory methods in qualitative research particularly when interviewing participants with varied linguistic, cultural, political and musical backgrounds.

Originality/value

There is sparse research on the use of musicking in the interview process of qualitative research.

Citation

Becker, K.M. (2019), "Beyond researcher as instrument: Researcher with instrument: musicking in qualitative data collection", Qualitative Research Journal, Vol. 19 No. 4, pp. 426-437. https://doi.org/10.1108/QRJ-02-2019-0021