THE BRONZE BANDS OF TARAPACÁ (CHILE) AS A CONTEXT OF MUSICAL LEARNING AND CULTURAL TRANSMISSION

Abstract

In this paper the phenomenon of the brass bands in Tarapacá (Chile) is examined from an ethnomusicological and educational perspective. On the one hand, the traits of the musicians are investigated and, on the other hand, data is gathered and reflections made on the characteristic venues and repertoires. Based on prior knowledge of the field, this exploratory study drew on a sample of musicians from bands in the region to conduct interviews and a survey. In addition, various materials (videos, music scores and other library resources) were reviewed. The analysis of all the collected data explores the ways in which the musicians join and mature in the bands. The results highlight the close relationship between the kind of learning that occurs in this context and the socio-cultural functions, repertoires and performance spaces that distinguish these bands. Finally, the implications for ethnomusicology and education are discussed in accordance with the results. Among other points, these suggest giving prestige to the processes of informal and non-formal music education in view of its evident functionality and effectiveness in a given cultural context.