- We work from and towards as broad a conception of music as possible.
- We are focused on the work that music does, rather than music conceived as works.
- We believe that music is not simply produced by social and cultural conditions, but is entangled in the production of those conditions.
- We propose that music is a fundamental organising principle, carrying complex determining networks—material, ideal, and historical.
- We believe that music is a heterogeneous phenomenon requiring multiple approaches and discourses for its understanding.
- We seek agreement and common ground from our disparate approaches, but more importantly, we build from points of disagreement to lead us to listen and think music differently.
- We argue from an attitude of open listening.
- We pursue a knowledge that is questioning rather than authoritative.
- We are dedicated to the cultivation of ways of listening.
- We are concerned with ethical principles and problems that arise through the encounter of disparate music making and listening practices.
