In recent years I have found myself coming to appreciate art more and more. When I use the term “art” I am referring to all forms of art, whether they be visual, aural or anything else.
So what is art? How does one define art? Art by its very nature is undefinable; Ars Poetica, perhaps Archibald Macleish’s most well known poem may offer some assistance in our struggle to define art. Though his observations are limited to written word, I believe they can be applied to all forms of art.
Ars Poetica by Archibald Macleish
“A poem (art) should not mean but be”, that right there says it all.
Now what does that mean? To me, simply put, art should transcend its inherent form. Poetry is more than words on a page, Paintings are more than colors on a canvas, Photos are more than there subject, and Music is more than just sound. I mean is there anyone out there who thinks otherwise? I do realize that list can easily continue on but for the post lets conform to the title and stick with music.
I truly believe music to be the ultimate form of human expression.
Now I may be wrong, but consider this:
When was the last time you asked someone IF they listen to music?
The question is always: “WHAT kind of music do you listen to?”
Music exists for us all and we can all get something out of music. It can enhance any mood just as easily as it can change it. Many of us use music to define moments in our lives. Like so many things in life, you gain more wisdom or perhaps more experience and you learned to move on and outgrow your previous perspectives and approaches to life. In this same manner you outgrow some music and come to love other kinds – it really is strange to think about. Coming from a musician’s background I know performing music is a whole other monster.
It is one thing to attach yourself to music, but to actually create it? So much goes into performing music than will ever be able to described. True musicians put there life into every note, and it shows. By no means does the music have to be complicated or fast or intense or really anything. Many of the most touching and loved songs are some the most simple you can find. There have even been an instance for me where inspiration has come from someone just playing scales. Each note contained such vibrant colors and emotions you could just feel yourself being uplifted and then left with a chill after the resonance has faded.
There are many people who have never been to a concert in person, you are missing out. No art is more captivating than watching music being created. You can connect with the music so much more than just listening with speakers. Believe me, a good musician will find your heart strings an tug on them, bringing you on quite a ride.
I am merely writing this post to point out that we take for granted so many of the things that we are able to experience, particularly music. So next time you click your favorite play list or crank up your favorite song, appreciate the art for something that is more than its parts, something that really transcends its form and becomes you.
posted by Alex
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