The total number of scientific publications in music in Australia showed considerable fluctuation from 2013 to 2023, standing at 71.18 units in 2023. The annual growth rates have varied significantly, with notable peaks in 2015 (6.17%) and 2016 (7.75%), and declines in 2017 (-12.98%) and 2020 (-6.24%). Over the last two years, the rate of publication growth has stabilized somewhat, showing a modest increase in 2022 (8.45%) and a smaller rise in 2023 (0.48%). The five-year CAGR leading up to 2023 is relatively low at 2.21%, indicating a slow but steady increase in publications.
Forecast data suggest that the number of publications will continue to rise gradually, reaching 72.1 units by 2028. The forecasted five-year CAGR at 0.18% implies minimal growth, consistent with the overall trend of stabilization seen in recent years. Long-term trends show that the field may be plateauing and could benefit from strategic initiatives to boost research activities.
Future trends to watch for include potential impacts of new technological advancements in music research, evolving digital platforms that facilitate publication, and shifts in academic funding priorities that could influence the volume of scientific work in the music domain.
