Introduction

In this chapter, I set the scene for the book by outlining the overall conceptual framework and introducing the participants, beginning by defining what is meant by the term ‘musical mother’. I explain how the women were recruited for the study and how the study was undertaken. As part of that, I justify the inclusion of my own story throughout the book as another example of musical mothering and to demonstrate my reflexivity. Ethical considerations are discussed, highlighting the need for researchers to be transparent about the research process to minimise any feelings of betrayal or exploitation. Finally, I introduce the mothers whose stories are generously shared in this book, and an overview of the book is presented.