Music as a medium of consciousness alteration Cover Image

Muzikinė patirtis kaip sąmonės keitimo medija
Music as a medium of consciousness alteration

Author(s): Laima Zakaraitė
Subject(s): Philosophy
Published by: Vytauto Didžiojo Universitetas
Keywords: musical perception; altered state of consciousness; trance; shamanism; yoga.

Summary/Abstract: The article concerns the phenomena of the altered states of consciousness, especially their connection with music perception. This includes the overview of the shaman ecstasy and relative experiences like trance dance and yoga practice where music in particular meaning plays the role of medium changing the ordinary state of consciousness. In the shaman community the change is essential: it distinguishes the shaman, besides it helps healing. The shaman's drum is of the greatest importance. It is one of the magic means of transporting through time and space. The subculture of trance dance takes the elements of shaman ritual. The members of a trance dance event distinguish by the special state of consciousness, which changes thanks to a few factors, one of which is music and dance. An intensive yoga practicing may lead to the similar changes of the state of consciousness. This practice is also historically bonded with the elements of a shaman ritual.

  • Issue Year: 07/2005
  • Issue No: 4
  • Page Range: 47-55
  • Page Count: 9
  • Language: Lithuanian
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