In the transition of cultures, music can play an important role. Music tends to remind us of past experiences or to catapult us into new ones. It can help us cry when we need to, or feel refreshed, excited, and ready to take action. Sometimes it’s great for inner calm. In short, music can have a deep experience in our emotions.
On my first trip to France, I recorded all the songs I heard (virtually!) from “NRJ”, my favorite radio station in France! When I listen to those songs today, I am transported back to the wonderful memories of that time in my life.
The other thing I’ve noticed, when I live and travel abroad, is that music varies dramatically from country to country, at least in part. If you focus on things other than the American pop songs that are playing everywhere, you can start to travel to the culture in which you live. Finding local music that you enjoy can help you create new memories in your new home.
You might find yourself craving a certain song you love, thus building up some excitement, which can be especially helpful on days when you’re feeling a little down. Music of course can also lead to dance, whether you are seeing others such as a local cultural event, or going to a dance club or bar, again music can create some fun and activity for you. .
So as you transition into a new culture, here are some ideas revolving around music that might help:
- Before you move out, make a special CD or mix for your MP3 player/cell phone (any device you use!) that reminds you of the good times you have at home. You can play this music whenever you feel a little nostalgic to remind yourself that you haven’t lost connection with home. You can be with him in spirit and memory whenever you need him.
- After you move, search for local radio stations with the beats/sounds/rhythms that you like best. (I don’t want to use terms like “rock, classical, etc” as they may not correlate to what you have access to.) If you find some music you particularly enjoy, consider getting a CD by that artist and going to a concert, if they play in your area; wear your favorite music to go out into the world.
- If you hear a song you love multiple times and can’t figure out the artist, then hopefully you’ll hear it one day in a bar, cafe, etc., ask the waiter if he knows the name. This is a great way to start a conversation, as well as helping you connect with local music.
- As you find more and more music you like, be sure to collect some of the songs. If you eventually repatriate, you’ll have a wonderful collection of songs to connect you to the place you left.
