Rethinking Creative Practice: Technology and Artistic Expression in the Digital Age

Abstract

The rapid diffusion of digital technologies has reshaped how music is created, taught, distributed and performed, altering the working conditions of instrumental musicians across both the Global North and the Global South. This article examines how these transformations affect live music performance and the livelihoods of rural instrumental musicians in South Africa, with reference to the Vhembe District in Limpopo Province. Drawing on a narrative review of scholarly and policy literature published between 2015 and 2025 and informed by the Social Construction of Technology perspective and debates on platform capitalism, the study synthesises evidence on digital music production, streaming services, arts education and the position of rural musicians in the contemporary creative economy. The review indicates that digital tools have expanded creative possibilities and audience reach for some musicians, while intensifying competition, compressing earnings from recorded-music and marginalising instrumental performers who lack reliable connectivity, digital literacy and industry networks. Rural musicians in the Vhembe District appear particularly exposed, remaining dependent on live performance in an environment where such opportunities are shrinking and where participation in digital markets is uneven. The University of Venda's Jam Sessions are considered as a local counter-practice that seeks to preserve live performance while engaging with digital media. The article contributes to debates on platform capitalism, digital labour and cultural policy in the Global South, and outlines directions for arts education, digital-infrastructure development and targeted policy support for rural music economies in South Africa.