Most music and workplace studies are applied studies with little theoretical prediction about outcomes

of organizational behaviour as a result of music experiences. In fact, most music–work descriptions in

current music psychology focus on the Muzak effect, presenting a limited view of the interactions that
occur between workers and music listening. Further, the need for testing a music and work theory
persists despite the challenge of being unobtrusive in work environments. This study focuses on a
particular work culture, that of computer information systems development, investigating the role of
music and affect within this emotionally dynamic context. While several perspectives of music and affect
are relevant in the music–worker relationship, increased shortterm positive mood through music
listening is emphasized in this article.