Fundamentals of Understanding Music

Nota:

• Thai Buddhist Monk Example: One of clearer examples given in the textbook describes where the cultural transition between speech and song begins.  > The Thai Buddhist monks have a culture where the chanting that they do is considered song to those people and that culture, whereas to an outsider, it may just sound like chanting (heightened speech).

Nota:

• Here's why: 1) Music is not a language of its own.  2) While certain sounds and symbols may be similar throughout the world, the meanings behind them are very different and inconsistent.            - The Dutch sailor example: Dutch sailors were killed because of a miscommunication through instruments and gestures when attempting to come on land where Native Americans resided.

Nota:

• > When labeled pieces are grouped together, it creates a sort of hierarchical scale where, if for instance pop, folk, and classical were grouped together, classical would have the highest value, then pop, and then folk.  > Labeling where the different types of music have a neutral value is acceptable. 

Nota:

• The study and recording/documentation of music in other cultures can be conducive to a better understanding and appreciation of music world-wide.  

Nota:

• > The presence of outsiders and equipment used to record audio, video, or photograph may cause the performers to perform differently. > The presence of outsiders may not be welcomed during some performances which are considered sacred, ceremonial, religious, or political within that culture.