Music is one of the few art forms that is universally present throughout human culture. Despite its prevalence, it is also perhaps one of the least understood arts. While philosophers, scholars and scientists have studied music for centuries, there are still many unanswered questions about why and how music exists. Attempts to explain its existence are usually couched in terms of necessity, beauty or entertainment, but there is a lack of consensus about the purpose of music. Some argue that it has a function in human life, others claim that music is merely a superfluous artistic expression, and even some scientists have been known to question its existence at all.
It’s not hard to see why people would like to have a definitive answer to this question. A simple definition of music is that it is a set of sounds organized according to a system of cultural rules and traditions. It may be heard alone or accompanied by another artform, such as drama or dance. Traditionally, it is used in religious services and ceremonies as a means of conveying emotion or promoting devotion. It is often a vehicle for communication, either to relay a message or simply to inspire, and has been used as an instrument of propaganda in times of war. In modern times it is frequently associated with dance, radio broadcasts and synchronized film.
Musical art has been a vital part of human cultures since prehistoric times. Throughout history it has evolved and been influenced by other art forms, religion, social and economic structures, climate, the availability of technology and much more. Many cultures have distinguished between art music, folk music and popular music. Others have coupled music with other art forms, such as the Chinese four arts and the medieval quadrivium.
Aristotle viewed music as a functional art, while his pupil Aristoxenus emphasized the emotions and beauty of individual tones, as well as the importance of the listener. He also stressed the fact that the structure of music was not based on mathematical or acoustical considerations, but rather that it relied on the listener’s perception of the relationships between tones.
Other people have argued that music is necessary in human life, claiming that it is an intrinsic human need and a natural phenomenon. In his book, The Soul of Man Under Socialism, composer and philosopher Karl Marx referred to the “rhythm of song” as the most significant aspect of humanity’s evolution, arguing that it is the most important component in human spiritual life.
Music is a form of human expression that stirs passions, affects attitudes and beliefs, inspires ideals and can be used to bring about change in the world. This power makes it essential for a world that seeks to resolve animosities between races and cultures, to encourage the advancement of egalitarian values and to promote peace.
A full discussion of the meaning and purpose of music would require a lengthy article, but we hope that this brief overview will help stimulate thought and inspire further study of key periods in the development of this complex medium. Ultimately, music is an incredible tool that does many things: it enriches our communities, it provides entertainment and it puts us in touch with beauty. So let’s remember to enjoy it and be grateful that it exists.