The Use of Music in Early Caregiver-Child Relationships in Bhutan

This study addresses how the local practices, traditions, and perspectives surrounding the use of music in early caregiver–child relationships are articulated by local musicians, singers, and health workers in the context of Bhutan. This small Buddhist kingdom in the Himalayan region with historical, religious, and cultural ties to Tibet is undergoing rapid transformations influenced by globalization. A qualitative research design was employed to explore the topic, using individual semi-structured interviews. The study was conducted from the viewpoint of a Western-trained music therapist and also involved local collaborators. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data. The findings reveal existing customs and practices similar to those recognized in Western literature as musical interactions between caregivers and children, and they emphasize how music can create unique opportunities for children’s social participation in various contexts. The results highlight the effects of globalization on the role of music, showing that factors such as technology, migration, and the influx of new ideas are influencing children’s access to music, the ways in which music is practiced by children and caregivers, and traditional events. The discussion is framed around music as an inborn capacity, aligning with the concept of communicative musicality, and is viewed through an ecological perspective of music in addition to the concept of “scapes” to comprehend the evolving musical landscape in Bhutan. AcknowledgementsI would like to thank the Norwegian Academy of Music and my supervisors, Dr. Gro Trondalen and Dr. Sidsel Karlsen, for their guidance and support. Special thanks to Dr. Neyzang Wangmo for her guidance and mentorship throughout this project; to Mr. Jigme Drukpa for his support with recruiting and interviewing; and to the Community Health Department of Jigme Dorji Wangchuck Referral Hospital and Khesar Gyalpo University of Medical Sciences of Bhutan for their openness and cooperation, which made this researchpossible. Most importantly, I am grateful to the participants who shared their stories and perspectives—your contributions were essential to this study. FundingThe Progreso Foundation funded this research.