Counted, Earning, and Behaving as Europeans: Western Art Music and Social Capital in Late 19th Century Batavia
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Date
2024-01-09
Authors
Sulaiman, Michelle
Journal Title
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Publisher
University of Oregon
Abstract
This thesis examines how and why the musical preferences of the Batavian elites shifted in the late nineteenth century. I argue that Batavian elites constructed and performed “Europeanness” to distinguish themselves not only from the Indies natives but also from Europeans of lower social and economic status (blijvers). While the Indies elite had previously enjoyed native, hybridized, and European entertainments in the previous century, they gradually distanced themselves from non-European music and behaviors. The creation of exclusive spaces, such as the Batavian Schouwburg and social clubhouses, also strengthened the idea of “Europeanness” among the elites. I also examine how participation in Batavian music scenes affected the economic and social capital of three musicians: Marie Storm ‘s van-Gravesande, Pauline Lange-Rijckmans, and Gijbertus van Dam. Within this close-knit circle, these musicians attempted to exchange their cultural capital for economic and social capital with varying degrees of success.