When writing a research paper on music, it is important to follow the standard academic paper format and structure. The main parts should include an introductory section, body paragraphs with argument/topic sentences, and a conclusion. Here is an overview of the typical sections and their content:
Introduction (1500-2000 characters)
The introduction should start with a hook to capture the reader’s interest and introduce the general topic being examined. It then needs to clearly state the research question or thesis in 1-2 sentences. Provide some relevant background information and context to set up why the research question is worth examining. Finish by outlining the structure of the rest of the paper.
For example: “Music is a universal language that has developed differently across cultures over time. This research paper will examine how the creation and stylistic elements of jazz music evolved as black American communities and culture progressed throughout the 20th century. It will first discuss the origins of jazz in New Orleans around the turn of the century. Second, it will analyze how jazz styles changed as migration occurred and new influences incorporated bebop and later modal jazz. Finally, it will assess the global impact and legacy jazz has had on music worldwide.”
Body Paragraph 1 (2000-3000 characters)
The first body paragraph should have a topic sentence that relates directly back to your research question or thesis. Provide analysis and examples to support the topic sentence. Use in-text citations after quotations or stating someone’s ideas/findings.
For example: “Jazz originated in the late 19th century in black communities in New Orleans. Early jazz was a fusion of ragtime and blues which developed out of spirituals and work songs African Americans brought with them from plantations. As stated by Jerrold Moore, ‘The Creole music of New Orleans with its ragtime element was the immediate precursor of early jazz'” (123). Provide a quote and analysis of early New Orleans jazz styles and influences.
Body Paragraph 2 (2000-3000 characters)
The second body paragraph should present a new aspect of analysis that builds logically on from the previous point. Again, have a clear topic sentence that is directly related back to the research question. Offer further examples, interpretations and citations as needed.
For example: “As the Great Migration occurred from 1910-1930, jazz music and its performers moved northward out of New Orleans. Cities like Chicago, Kansas City, and New York became hubs for the development of new jazz styles…” Discuss how bebop emerged as a faster, more techncially complex style of jazz in response to the social realities migrants faced in northern cities.
Body Paragraph 3 (2000-3000 characters)
The third body paragraph ties everything back full circle to the research question. It should not introduce any new information but synthesize key points that support the thesis. You can also discuss implications, applications, or need for future research.
For example: “From its roots in New Orleans to bebop to later modal eras, jazz music adapted alongside the progression of black American culture and communities in the 20th century. As jazz performers increasingly produced their own recordings and toured globally, the genre gained widespread popularity and cemented its influence on all popular music styles since. While jazz styles will certainly continue to evolve, its early origins fused diverse African traditions with American influences to establish a truly authentic art form.”
Conclusion (1500 characters)
Briefly restate the main points covered without just repeating verbatim. You can emphasize why the research question was significant and its broader impacts/revelations. Finish with a final statement that leaves the reader with important takeaways.
For example: “This paper has examined how jazz music developed from its beginnings in New Orleans through different eras as cultural and social surroundings changed. As a singularly American art form that spread worldwide, jazz acts as an embodiment of the evolving African American experience. Ultimately, the genre demonstrates how diverse musical and cultural traditions fuse together to advance our shared human story.”