Uses (and abuses) of music

 

When muzak was invented, we redefined music as having utilitarian qualities, i.e. to be used for a purpose other than enjoyment or enrichment, and only as something to fill the background or “decorate” the space with a pre-fab, nondescript sound. This is a use of music, but not the essence of music.

In Haydn’s time, a symphonic performance was the ultimate experience of music—like a rock concert-- the essence of music. People now play Haydn on clock radios and MP3 players (just as a little background noise). I think this is a meretricious use of music as an object, although at least it includes music in daily life at some level.

Another example of simply using music is when it is used as jingo, with intentionally bad musicianship, only to hijack it for use as a fight song or other utilitarian propaganda. (A work song is different in that it is an original composition, used to rally community spirit.)

The true essence of music, at least from the first inventors of tonal music, is to create a semblance of spirituality or enrichment, or to enlighten the life of the listener for the greater whole. Not necessarily in a devotional way, but to create at least a sense of wonder about it. The enlightenment really gave music its wings...