Celebrating poly _ harmonic culture

Abstract

“The truth of the matter, however, is very different. What actually happens is that social structures crystallize in musical structures; that in various ways and with varying degrees of critical awareness, the musical microcosm replicates the social macrocosm.” [Ballantine,5] This Project is based on establishing the essence of cultural expression through music in its various forms. The aim is to represent that meaning as a source of pride and unification in the contemporary Johannesburg context. Throughout this document, the reader shall be presented with the theoretical framework that outlines the complex issues and networked aspects surrounding culture that are to be considered. This shall be the basis of the practical output of an architectural solution linking programmed events to both an ephemeral and social structure thereby coordinating a hybrid of different cultures into one community. The reason for this exploration is based primarily on South Africa's unique history as a place of conflict and diversity, thus resulting in one of the world's most multi-cultural p o p u l a t i o n s . [http://www.saccd.org.za/objects/making_c ultural_policy.pdf (Accessed 10-04-08 at 1829hrs)] The social aspect of architecture, particularly that of cultural heritage, was chosen through extensive research and 5 personal interest.