Capstone

Abstract

Abstract Scholars believe that when people participate in musical activities, they associate with reduced anxiety and increase subjective well-being. This study analyzes how millennials used music for subjective well-being and in their everyday lives to relieve their anxieties and possible depression. The study also focuses on the perceptions the millennials had before and during situations of isolation. The researchers also collected online reviews on some respondents to determine their perception of music before the time of lockdowns. The results indicated that before the durations of isolation, most millennials participated in musical activities for leisure and when they needed to relax. However, after the pandemic hit the world, and America in particular, and the government enforced lockdown and isolation protocols, the respondents increased their time devoted to musical activities ranging from singing, listening, singing along, playing a musical instrument, and to dancing. Additionally, the respondents reported using music as a companion in times of lockdown to combat boredom. The music raised their moods, helped them relax, was a sure companion that helped them escape some harsh environments outside their homes. The findings suggest that the overall perception of music amongst millennials improved significantly during the pandemic, also improving the value of music within the personal and social wellbeing of the participants. Nevertheless, the research discloses substantial variance in the application and perceptions of music depending on the participant's circumstances. In addition, the level of vulnerability significantly influenced how conservative a participant was in the use of musical activities, thus further shaping the perceptions about the positive value of music in the millennials' lives.