South African Music Studies

About this journal

South African Music Studies' is a peer-reviewed academic journal dedicated to the scholarly exploration of music in all its multifaceted expressions within the South African context. Its scope encompasses a wide range of musical traditions, from indigenous and traditional styles to contemporary genres and the influences of global musical trends. The journal embraces interdisciplinary approaches, welcoming contributions from musicologists, ethnomusicologists, music theorists, composers, performers, and scholars from related fields such as anthropology, sociology, and history.

Key themes explored within the journal include the history of South African music, the social and cultural significance of music in different communities, the impact of colonialism and apartheid on musical practices, the development of contemporary genres such as kwaito and amapiano, the role of music in education and performance, and the preservation and transmission of musical heritage. The journal also features articles on the lives and works of prominent South African musicians, analyses of specific musical works and performances, and discussions of theoretical and methodological issues related to music research.

The intended audience for 'South African Music Studies' includes music scholars, students, and researchers working within the field of music studies, as well as professionals in the music industry, educators, and individuals with a keen interest in South African music and culture. The journal provides a platform for sharing cutting-edge research, promoting critical engagement with music, and fostering dialogue between different perspectives.

'South African Music Studies' has made a significant impact on the field by establishing itself as a leading publication for the dissemination of research on South African music. The journal has contributed to a greater understanding of the diversity and richness of South African musical traditions, fostered collaborations between researchers from different backgrounds, and inspired further investigation and scholarship in the field. Its influence extends beyond academia, informing and influencing the public perception of South African music and its cultural significance.