Music is a human activity which involves structured, audible
sounds and is used for artistic, entertainment or
ceremonial purposes. Music is a major part of our
environment. Music is often referred to as "The International
Language"--a simple thought with vast implications behind
it. Even if you cannot speak the language of a foreign
country, you can move, dance, and most of all, enjoy the
music of that country. While we may not understand the
words to a particular song, we do understand the beauty of
the music.
The making of music predates man's use of the written word
and is deeply tied to the development and uniqueness of
various human cultures. Music has influenced human beings
since the dawn of civilization. Music is written and
performed for a variety of purposes, including human
pleasure, religious or ceremonial functions, or as
entertainment products for sale in the marketplace.
Music greatly affects our personal moods. Music can calm
and revitalize us in a variety of ways. It can elevate our
moods above our personal fears and doubts and even
reduce stress and pain levels.
Try listening to a classical music score for a sense of power.
Soft, soothing music can help you unwind. And listen to
medium-fast to fast music for exercising and house
cleaning. Putting additional music in your life can be a
powerfully enriching tool.
As with everything created by humans, there is an elemental
basis for the composition of music. The basic essence of
music lies with its harmony, rhythm, melody and dynamics.
Harmony is the relation of notes to notes as they are play
simultaneously. Rhythm, by the most simple definition, is
musical time. Melody is a musical line of single tones or
pitches, heard by the listener as a single unity. Dynamics
provide the emotion behind the musical thought. Dynamics
tell the performer when to play a piece softly or when to play
loudly--music ranges from a mere whisper to the fullest of
sound.
Just as there are a multitude of definitions for the term "music",
likewise there are many divisions and groupings of music,
many of which are caught up in the argument over the precise
definition of music. Among the larger theme areas are classical
music, popular or commercial music (including rock and roll),
country music and folk music. Some genres such as
bebop-era jazz, rap, punk rock and electronic music are often
discounted as "real music" by member music lovers.
As world cultures have grown closer, their particular musical
styles and instruments have often merged. For example,
U.S.-American bluegrass music contains elements from
Anglo-Irish, Scottish, German and some African-American
instrumental and vocal traditions. American music is truly
product of the multi-ethnic "melting pot" society.
Whatever style of music you prefer, take the time regularly to
enjoy your special musical composition. Music is good for your
soul!
Article written by Larry Denton. |
