Music is such a diverse area of the arts in that there are literally hundreds of different genres that people from around the world listen to. whether it be classical music from the time of Bach or mozart, through to the latest rap music, there is something for everyone to listen to. how does this come about?
Why do people have such different preferences for music? There are many reasons that range from the period that people were born or the country and culture that they were raised in. Let's examine some examples so that this can become a little clearer.
Personally, I was born into a musical family, my father was a piano player and my older brother a singer and multi instrumentalist. Now because of that family influence I too became involved in music and pursued a career in music and music education. I was influenced by the music my family listened to and so was fortunate to appreciate a very wide range of music from jazz to contemporary music. My studies extended into the genres of classical music as well. Therefore, I have come to enjoy many varied musical styles.
Another example may be of a person born into a culture that has a very strong folk music component. for example, the country of Hungary has a very rich and valued musical culture and young children grow up involved in music on a daily basis. Therefore, the tradition of their folk music is passed on from generation to generation.
People who were part of the teenage generation of the 1960's will have extremely strong ties with the various social and political movements that were reflected so strongly through the music of the day. Who can forget the wealth of songs written to protest about the Vietnam War or the songs that portrayed the new hippy culture. Songs by The Mamas and Papas or Joan Baez, Bob Dylan, Buffalo Springfield......the list goes on. This era was an extremely powerful one in terms of social, economic and poliitical events that occurred during this time and so you will find many people who are reminded of such momentous events through the music that was written at the time.
More recently. there are many more new styles that seem to convey a message to our younger generation, in particular, rap music has found a place and though some of the messages are very dark, nevertheless, they are messages that give younger people reason to listen to the music. Also, you will find the world over, that lots of people just like to listen to music to dance to or for relaxation purposes. It really doesn't matter - this is a great thing and it is good that all people have different tastes in the music that they liten to. It keeps things fresh!
so, next time that you walk into a CD shop remember that you a one of millions who possess different tastes in music for a whole range of reasons. This may make you think a little wider about music and give you a greater tolerance for those who may not like your kind of music but other styles completely foreign to you. How does the saying go?.....Variety is the spice of life!! You betcha!
To read more articles by Greg Culver, check out www.myrecreationweb.com
About the Author
www.musicweblive.com is a website dedicated to providing articles and information related to music, the arts and entertainment. Greg Culver is the owner.
