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Abstract
This Culminating Experience project, "Confronting Negativity: Self-Directed Recovery through the Utilization of Music," explores how music can facilitate healing from physical injury, racial trauma, and emotional distress. Combining traditional Korean music and global jazz practices, I employed the ajaeng and jazz idioms to compose and perform original works. The project stemmed from personal and systemic challenges I experienced as a musician, particularly overuse injury and racial discrimination. As an Asian artist in the United States, I encountered both explicit and subtle racism, which significantly impacted my emotional well-being and creative voice. To support my recovery, I incorporated physical therapy, Alexander Technique training, and daily meditation. These practices helped restore physical function and supported emotional resilience while enhancing musical sensitivity. I developed four original compositions as central reflections of this journey: “The World Where I Want to Live In” conveys hope and cultural identity; “Illusion Kaleidoscope” explores meditative perception; “Intelli Coocoo” critiques covert racism; and “Honk & Riffs” reclaims public space through sound. This project contributes to global jazz and music therapy by proposing a holistic model of self-directed recovery and musical activism. It reaffirms music’s power as a tool for healing, cultural expression, and community engagement.
Publication Date
7-1-2025
Campus
Boston Campus
Keywords
Music Therapy; Racism; Self-Directed Recovery; Alexander Technique; Korean Music & Global Jazz)
Recommended Citation
Kim, Yoona. “Confronting Negativity: Self-Directed Recovery through the Utilization of Music.” Master's thesis, Berklee College of Music, 2025. https://remix.berklee.edu/graduate-studies-global-jazz/184.