The Art of Listening to Music

Have you ever thought why certain songs make you feel overwhelmed with emotion?  Or why do some songs make you move your feet and dance?...

I can’t personally answer all the scientific know-how behind those questions, but I can give you some insight into the enjoyment of listening to music.  If you know a few essentials on what to listen for, you may appreciate the next tune you hear in a different light.

The 6 Essential Elements of Music

• Rhythm. Rhythm is what you feel.  It is based on pure mathematics and subdivided into fractions of time. Rhythm is the beat you follow in dance and movement.
• Tempo. The pace and speed music is played; fast, slow, and in-between. 
• Melody. The reoccurring theme or tune of a song or orchestral piece.
• Harmony. Two or more pitches played or sang at the same time.  Some harmonies sound pleasant, while others may be dissonant (unusual in combination or disturbing).
• Dynamics. The different levels of volume throughout the song (from loud to soft).
• Style.  Jazz, classical, rock, pop, folk, blues, zydeco… (the list is never ending). 

​Many people are familiar with the essential elements of music, however, are not aware they are experiencing them.  The next time you hear a tune, pay close attention to the six essentials.  You may be surprised on what you hear. 

As I wrap up this blog, I’ll leave you with the song that always makes me get up dance.  What’s yours?

​“The Art of Listening to Music” author:  Suzy, violinist and founder of Vogue Violin www.vogueviolin.com