Music, a universal language, has been defined in myriad ways, each reflecting the writer's personal perspective and appreciation. What one person considers music, another might dismiss as mere noise. This article delves into the diverse definitions of music, exploring the nuances and complexities that make it such a subjective art form.
Music, a universal language, has been defined in myriad ways, each reflecting the writer's personal perspective and appreciation. What one person considers music, another might dismiss as mere noise. This article delves into the diverse definitions of music, exploring the nuances and complexities that make it such a subjective art form.
The perception of music is highly subjective. For instance, some might find the compositions of Ethelbert Nevin melodious, while others might consider Johann Sebastian Bach's works as mere noise. Conversely, there are those who revere Bach and dismiss Nevin. This dichotomy extends to other composers as well, such as Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Igor Stravinsky, where opinions often diverge.
The dictionary offers a broad definition, stating that "music is the art of combining tones to please the ear." However, this raises the question: whose ear? What pleases one person might not necessarily please another.
French writer Jules Combarieu provides a more encompassing definition, describing music as "the art of thought in tone." According to Combarieu, music is an art form that involves educated mental action and discrimination, using tones as its medium to create an artistic work. This definition emphasizes the intellectual and creative aspects of music.
The question of what constitutes an art work in music is contentious. Some might argue that Mozart's compositions are art, while others might favor the works of Charles Wakefield Cadman or Victor Herbert. This debate highlights the subjective nature of musical appreciation.
To create a more universally acceptable definition, one might say that music is "thought expressed in tone." This definition excludes random, unstructured noises and requires a certain level of mental application and knowledge of musical construction.
Some believe that music should be impersonal and abstract, devoid of any narrative or story. This school of thought values the purity of musical form and structure.
Another perspective is that music should always tell a story, conveying emotions and narratives through its melodies and harmonies. This approach often results in programmatic music, where compositions are designed to evoke specific images or stories.
A third viewpoint argues that music should represent the entirety of life, including its pain, horror, and calamity. According to this school of thought, music should not be limited to pleasing the ear but should also portray the full spectrum of human experience, even if it involves discord and cacophony.
The debate over whether music's primary function is to be beautiful or to represent all aspects of life has been ongoing for centuries. This contention is likely to persist, as different cultures and individuals have varying expectations and interpretations of what music should be.
To avoid endless debates, a generalized definition such as "thought expressed through tone" can be adopted. This definition is broad enough to encompass various schools of music and composition, making it a more inclusive and universally acceptable description.
Music, in its myriad forms and interpretations, remains a deeply personal and subjective experience. While definitions may vary, the essence of music as "thought expressed through tone" provides a broad and inclusive framework that accommodates diverse perspectives. As the debate continues, music will undoubtedly remain a vital and evolving art form, reflecting the complexities of human thought and emotion.
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