Christopher Small, born on March 17, 1927, in Palmerston North, New Zealand, grew up alongside his sister Rosemary in a household filled with a love for music and creativity. From a young age, he showed a talent for music, which led him to pursue his passion for music and the arts.
Small's academic journey began at Otago University, where he delved into the world of music and honed his skills as a musician. He later continued his studies at the Victoria University of Wellington, where he further deepened his knowledge of music theory and composition.
After completing his education, Small embarked on a career as a music teacher, sharing his love for music with students in both New Zealand and England. His innovative approach to music education earned him recognition in the field, paving the way for his later groundbreaking work in ethnomusicology and sociomusicology.
Small's work in the fields of ethnomusicology and sociomusicology revolutionized the way music is understood and studied. His invention of the term "musicking" challenged the traditional view of music as a static object, arguing that music is a dynamic and active process that is shaped by the interactions between performers and listeners. This groundbreaking idea was outlined in his influential 1998 work, Musicking: The Meanings of Performing and Listening.
In addition to his work as a musicologist, Small was also a talented composer, known for his choral and orchestral pieces as well as his film scores. His compositions, such as Actions for Chorus – Some Maori Place Names and The Story of Soil, showcased his diverse musical talents and creative vision.
In the mid-1980s, Small moved to Spain, where he lived with his longtime partner, Jamaican dancer and vocalist Neville Braithwaite. The couple eventually tied the knot in 2006, solidifying their relationship and shared passion for the arts.
Christopher Small's impact on the field of musicology continues to resonate to this day. His pioneering ideas and innovative approach to music have inspired countless scholars and musicians, shaping the way we think about and engage with music. Small's legacy as a visionary thinker and talented composer lives on through his enduring contributions to the world of music.