The research article, “Perceived diversity norms, cultural identity styles and bicultural identity consolidation in two bicultural groups in Australia”, by Tseung-Wong, Dandy, and Lane presents a study that examines how perceived diversity norms—multiculturalism, assimilation, and polyculturalism—relate to identity styles and bicultural identity consolidation among bicultural Australians. The authors highlight two integrating strategies that help bicultural people navigate the consolidation or duality of their identities: “a hybrid identity style (HIS) that involves mixing elements of both cultures in a novel and unique way; and an alternating identity style (AIS) which involves highlighting different cultural identities depending on the demand of the situation” (Ng Tseung‐Wong, Dandy, & Lane, 2022, p. 364). As opposed to types, these strategies are described as styles to acknowledge that the integration process is dynamic and fluid. Research shows that identity styles correlate with psychosocial and well-being outcomes in bicultural individuals. A hybrid identity style (HIS) is associated with positive outcomes, such as improved psychological well-being via stronger bicultural identity consolidation, while an alternating identity style (AIS) is linked to negative psychological symptoms due to identity conflict. The authors additionally highlight two main types of diversity ideologies that shape beliefs about demographic diversity: identity-blind and identity-conscious. Identity-blind ideologies, like assimilation, minimize group differences, advocating for nondominant groups to adopt dominant group norms. In contrast, identity-conscious ideologies recognize and promote demographic differences and are reflected in ideas such as multiculturalism which promotes and recognizes group differences (Ng Tseung‐Wong, Dandy, & Lane, 2022).
This research article relates to my project as it explores the themes of biculturalism and navigating identity. As I aim to create a Chinese fusion composition that blends my experiences with mainstream and heritage culture, the topics and ideas discussed within the article are fundamental to my research. The authors discuss the two integration strategies of hybrid identity style and alternating identity style that underscore how multicultural people navigate their complex identities. They additionally highlight identity-blind and identity-conscious ideologies which highlight the difference between assimilation and integration. This article provides great insights into the topic of bicultural identity and will undoubtedly help me think through my project.
It was great to hear feedback regarding my pre-production binder. I received a lot of positive feedback overall. David thought the collaboration aspect of my project was very exciting. I brought up that if I couldn’t get in touch with traditional Chinese instrumentalists in Philadelphia, I could use the online service Fiverr which he thought was a good alternative. For more sounds, I decided to purchase a Native Instruments East Asia sample library which features a variety of traditional Chinese instruments. My group also enjoyed the poem that I wrote for the script component. They liked the wordplay and the theme of nature that connects back to traditional Chinese aesthetics. Overall it was great to hear everyone’s feedback.
For my proof of concept, I aim to produce a sample composition or a section of composition using the sample library that I purchased. The sample library is an amazing tool that will allow me to explore the sounds of various instruments that I otherwise wouldn’t be able to get my hands on. I am still in the phase of experimenting and exploring musical ideas, but I intend to start consolidating my ideas and start laying down parts in my DAW.
References
Ng Tseung‐Wong, C., Dandy, J., & Lane, M. (2022). Perceived diversity norms, cultural identity styles and bicultural identity consolidation in two bicultural groups in Australia. International Journal of Psychology, 57(3). https://doi.org/10.1002/ijop.12829