The Oxford Handbook of Musical Repatriation: Exploring the Complexities of Cultural Heritage

In the realm of cultural heritage, the repatriation of artifacts and cultural objects has sparked ongoing debates and discussions. The Oxford Handbook of Musical Repatriation, edited by Michael K. Jones and Emma M. Williams, delves into the complexities of musical repatriation, examining the historical, cultural, legal, and ethical dimensions of this intricate process.

The Oxford Handbook of Musical Repatriation (Oxford Handbooks)

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Language	:	English
File size	:	10209 KB
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The Historical Context of Musical Repatriation

The repatriation of musical instruments, recordings, and other artifacts has its roots in the colonial era, when European powers plundered and collected cultural objects from their colonies. These objects were often taken without consent, under coercion, or through dubious acquisitions, leading to a loss of cultural heritage and identity for the affected communities.

In recent decades, a growing awareness of the injustices of colonialism has fueled demands for the repatriation of cultural artifacts. Museums, institutions, and governments have faced pressure to return objects that were illegally acquired or that are deemed to have significant cultural and historical value to their countries of origin.

Perspectives on Musical Repatriation

The Oxford Handbook of Musical Repatriation presents diverse perspectives on the issue of musical repatriation. Contributors from various disciplines, including ethnomusicology, anthropology, history, law, and museum studies, provide insightful analyses of the complexities involved in the process.

Some perspectives emphasize the importance of returning artifacts to their rightful owners, arguing that it is a matter of justice and cultural reconciliation. Others highlight the challenges of repatriation, such as the difficulty of determining the rightful ownership of objects that have been dispersed or traded over time.

The handbook also addresses the ethical and legal implications of repatriation, exploring the role of international law, the rights of indigenous peoples, and the responsibilities of museums and cultural institutions.

Case Studies and Examples

The Oxford Handbook of Musical Repatriation includes numerous case studies and examples from around the world, illustrating the multifaceted nature of musical repatriation. These case studies examine the repatriation of instruments, recordings, and other artifacts, providing valuable insights into the challenges and successes of the process.

One notable case study focuses on the repatriation of the Maori taonga puoro, traditional musical instruments of the Maori people of New Zealand. The chapter discusses the complex negotiations and collaborations that led to the return of these instruments, highlighting the importance of cultural sensitivity and community engagement.

Another case study examines the repatriation of a collection of musical recordings from the British Library to the Solomon Islands. The chapter explores the ethical and legal issues involved in the repatriation of intangible heritage, such as recordings, and the challenges of ensuring that the benefits of repatriation are shared equitably within communities.

Collaborative and Respectful Approaches

The Oxford Handbook of Musical Repatriation emphasizes the need for collaborative and respectful approaches to repatriation. It advocates for dialogue and engagement between source communities, receiving institutions, and other stakeholders to ensure that repatriation is carried out in a way that is equitable and beneficial to all parties.

The handbook highlights the importance of respecting the cultural significance of objects and the knowledge and expertise of source communities. It encourages museums and cultural institutions to adopt inclusive practices and to work in partnership with indigenous communities to ensure that repatriated objects are used and displayed in a culturally appropriate manner.

The Oxford Handbook of Musical Repatriation is an indispensable resource for anyone interested in the complex and multifaceted issue of musical repatriation. The handbook provides a comprehensive overview of the historical, cultural, legal, and ethical dimensions of repatriation, offering valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities of this ongoing process.

By promoting collaborative and respectful approaches, the handbook encourages dialogue and understanding between source communities, receiving institutions, and other stakeholders. It contributes to the ongoing efforts to address the injustices of the past and to ensure that cultural heritage is shared and enjoyed equitably.

The Oxford Handbook of Musical Repatriation (Oxford Handbooks)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	10209 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	830 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE