Research methods use both ethnography and musical transcription and analysis and include fieldwork and interviews with informants. Some ethnomusicologists also perform the music they are studying, while others focus more on analysis and interpretation.
Fieldwork allows ethnomusicologists to immerse themselves in the music and culture of the people they are studying, allowing them to gain a deep understanding of the role music plays in their lives.
Because cultures and musical practices are constantly changing, ethnomusicologists often collect audio and video recordings, transcribe and analyze musical performances, create musical instruments, compose and arrange music, and document the results of their research in books, articles, and other publications.