# data[].attributes.body
The official definition of methodology is ": the analysis of the principles or procedures of inquiry in a particular field" (Merriam-Webster Dictionary).

But what methodology means to me is finding the best method to approach a subject that I want to research further. For example if I wanted to research technique than I would approach the methodology with a more analytical approach than ethnological. If I wanted to research more about how music affects issues within society I would use more either a historical or ethnographical approach to further understand how it affects society instead of analyzing the music itself

# data[].attributes.body
Ethnographic methodology is a powerful tool to use that researchers can use to delve deep into understanding the intricate relationships between music, history, and society, particularly within marginalized communities. This approach involves involving oneself in the community being studied, participating in its activities, and observing its cultural practices firsthand, by adopting this methodology, researchers can understand how music functions as a dynamic social force, shaping and reflecting the experiences of diverse groups.

When examining the impact of music history on society, especially on marginalized communities such as people of color and women, ethnographic research provides a nuanced understanding of the ways which music serves as a place of resistance, resilience, and cultural expression. For instance, within these communities, music often serves as a means of , claiming identity and challenging dominant power structures. By understanding and being involved in studying music by using ethnographical methods one can help realize the historical impact of musical genres, performances, and movements, shedding light on how music has been used as a tool for both oppression and liberation.

Moreover, ethnographic methodology allows researchers to explore the intersectionality of music with other social issues, such as race, gender, class, etc. By examining how these intersecting identities create musical practices and experiences, researchers can help the complexities of social inequality within musical contexts. For example, ethnographic studies may reveal how women of color navigate the predominantly male-dominated music industry or how queer communities use music as a means of building community and resilience.

For example, in class, we use the ethnographic method to understand the role of music activism within society especially within music activism which includes grassroots organizing and community-based initiatives. Through ethnographic inquiry, researchers can examine how music activists create resources, build networks, and advocate for social change. By documenting these efforts, ethnographers can highlight the transformative change of music activism in addressing social issues, focusing on marginalized voices, and fostering collective action.

In conclusion, ethnographic methodology offers a holistic approach to understanding the relationships between music, history, and society, particularly within society and marginalized communities. By allowing oneselves in the lived experiences of individuals and communities, researchers can show the multifaceted ways in which music shapes its social dynamics. Through this lens, scholars can not only document the musical practices and expressions of marginalized groups but also advocate for social justice and equality.

# data[].attributes.body
Ethnography is an anthropological-sociological method which seeks understand cultural practices, beliefs, behaviors, and interactions within groups of people or communities. This is done via immersing oneself in the culture being studied for an extended period, often through participant observation, interviews, and other forms of data collection. The goal is to obtain a thorough grasp of the group/community's cultural context and social dynamics, and to provide a detailed description capitalising on the perspective of the participants themselves.

# data[].attributes.body
This photo encompasses why musical research is important (especially for ethnographical methods). The whole purpose is to understand the purpose of how music fosters and empowers communities and marginalized voices. The purpose of studying music for me is to continue to educate myself and others on how important it is to bring voices together to foster a sense of community, belonging, and free expression.

# data[].attributes.body
Pros: First-hand experience provides great detail; investigates complex issues; holistic views

Cons: Time consuming, observer bias, ethical limitations

# data[].attributes.attachment_caption
San Jose Taiko, of which Wong is a member.

# data[].attributes.headline
Ethnography Example: Deborah Wong's Moving

# data[].attributes.subject
Ethnography Example: Deborah Wong's Moving

# data[].attributes.body
In this this article, Wong explores the Japanese drumming genre of Taiko, and as a Taiko player herself, uses the methodology of ethnography. Her approach is rather unique; she uses a combination of personal anecdotes, or autoethnography, as an Asian American Taiko player and audience member along with a more technical, academic approach. In doing so, she is able to connect with both non-ethnocologists and ethnocologists alike, and, thus, convincingly advances her argument on the importance of performance ethnography and the potential social and political power of Taiko.