What activities does an ethnomusicologist do in order to study a culture music well?

An ethnomusicologist engages in fieldwork to observe and participate in musical practices within a specific culture, often conducting interviews with musicians and community members to gain insights into the cultural context of the music. They may also analyze recordings and transcriptions of musical performances, exploring the relationships between music, identity, and social structures. Additionally, ethnomusicologists often collaborate with local artists and communities to understand the meanings and functions of music in everyday life.