Music and Humanity
Nick Keglovits
English 102-025
Argumentative Essay
12/11/09
Music and Humanity
2789 Words
“Music expresses that which cannot be said, and on which it is impossible to be silent” – Victor Hugo Everyone loves listening to music. It seems that everyone I talk to has a favorite band, or at the very least, a favorite genre of music. On a dark and cloudy day, when a light rain is falling, there is nothing I would rather do than listen to “Banana Pancakes” by Jack Johnson. No other thing, no other action, seems to fully encompass all of my thoughts and feelings; better yet, there is no better way to express them. There are certain styles, genres, and songs that are perfect for any emotion in any situation. Through sharing my attitude toward music with other people, I have come to the conclusion that, although seemingly impossible, it is possible to prove that music is an innate part of humanity. I would like to take a moment here, and explain what I mean by music. Music is the appreciation for what we hear; whether it is a bird’s song, the rustle of leaves in the park, or seeing a rock band perform, people are listening to music. With this definition, we can agree that music is present around the world, and everyone relates to it. This is a sort of connection that all humans share. This human connection is key to understanding why people attach themselves to music so strongly—after all, how can someone performing their own songs reach out to a crowd of thousands? Humans are completely tied to music, and it shows.
Music In Culture
To what extent is music apart of humanity? Music is so prevalent that entire cultures are recognized when a signature piece is heard. The bangs of percussion instruments can be heard deep in the heart of Africa, along with the Natives’ howls. The Chinese have characterized the plucked instruments with a heavy treble tone that comes with quick bends in pitch (Philmultic Management & Productions Inc.). Austrians come to mind
English 102-025
Argumentative Essay
12/11/09
Music and Humanity
2789 Words
“Music expresses that which cannot be said, and on which it is impossible to be silent” – Victor Hugo Everyone loves listening to music. It seems that everyone I talk to has a favorite band, or at the very least, a favorite genre of music. On a dark and cloudy day, when a light rain is falling, there is nothing I would rather do than listen to “Banana Pancakes” by Jack Johnson. No other thing, no other action, seems to fully encompass all of my thoughts and feelings; better yet, there is no better way to express them. There are certain styles, genres, and songs that are perfect for any emotion in any situation. Through sharing my attitude toward music with other people, I have come to the conclusion that, although seemingly impossible, it is possible to prove that music is an innate part of humanity. I would like to take a moment here, and explain what I mean by music. Music is the appreciation for what we hear; whether it is a bird’s song, the rustle of leaves in the park, or seeing a rock band perform, people are listening to music. With this definition, we can agree that music is present around the world, and everyone relates to it. This is a sort of connection that all humans share. This human connection is key to understanding why people attach themselves to music so strongly—after all, how can someone performing their own songs reach out to a crowd of thousands? Humans are completely tied to music, and it shows.
Music In Culture
To what extent is music apart of humanity? Music is so prevalent that entire cultures are recognized when a signature piece is heard. The bangs of percussion instruments can be heard deep in the heart of Africa, along with the Natives’ howls. The Chinese have characterized the plucked instruments with a heavy treble tone that comes with quick bends in pitch (Philmultic Management & Productions Inc.). Austrians come to mind
Bibliography: Maxwell, Mark. 7 Top Reasons Why Music Is So Important. 2009. 11 2009 <http://ezinearticles.com/?7-Top-Reasons-Why-Music-Is-So-Important&id=566580>. Murphy, Tim. "The When, Where, and Who of Pop Lyrics." Popular Music (1989): 185-193. Philmultic Management & Productions Inc. String Instruments From China. 2001. 12 2009 <http://www.philmultic.com/home/instruments/>. Zimmerman, George H. "Listen!" Music Editors Journal (1961): 29-31.