Ethnomusicology is the study of music within its cultural context, exploring how music reflects and shapes social identities, traditions, and practices. It combines elements of anthropology and musicology, examining not just the music itself but also the cultural, social, and historical factors that influence its creation and performance. Researchers in ethnomusicology often engage with communities to understand their musical traditions, documenting practices and beliefs surrounding music. This field emphasizes the importance of fieldwork and participant observation, allowing scholars to gain insights into the lived experiences of musicians and audiences alike.