Learning the Language of Music: A Life in Harmony

Authors

Syd Castro

Senior Project Advisor

Josh Durias

Document Type

Project

Publication Date

Fall 2025

Keywords

music, music theory, mental health, creativity, community, identity

Abstract

Music has been an integral part of humanity for thousands of years. This video presentation explores music as a language and mode of creative expression. The video features my original music and song analysis, examining themes of self-determination, community, and purpose. These themes are conveyed through various motifs that transform between pieces of music. These motifs depict my shifting perspectives on individual and collective well-being through my time at Western Washington University. I explain music theory concepts and demonstrate how I have applied them to communicate nuanced and dynamic ideas. Music is an effective means of encouraging introspection and understanding how one wishes to interact with their environment.

Department

Secondary Education

Type

Text

Rights

Copying of this document in whole or in part is allowable only for scholarly purposes. It is understood, however, that any copying or publication of this document for commercial purposes, or for financial gain, shall not be allowed without the author’s written permission.

Language

English

Format

application/pdf

Castro S capstone.docx (1646 kB)
Castro--Project Documentation

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