Abstract

Using a critical literature review approach, this paper examines the role of rural Western classical music festivals in increasing social sustainability. The study reviews and bridges gaps in research on the specific genre of classical music festivals. It identifies that there have been no studies on the specific topic of rural classical music festivals and their social impacts. However, the study identifies and codes three key topics crucial to fostering social sustainability in the context of rural music festivals: community resilience, community resourcefulness, and inhabitants’ well-being. Furthermore, this research presents a self-reinforcing cycle among community resilience, resourcefulness, and well-being, and offers a model for future research. By employing a robust methodology, analyzing diverse sources, and offering fresh perspectives on social sustainability, this manuscript seeks to contribute to the fields of Geography, Tourism, Event Management, and the Sociology of Music. It also aims to promote a deeper sociological and geographical understanding of the role of classical music festivals in rural communities for policymakers, community leaders, and event managers who are seeking to promote socially sustainable development in their communities.