Having a degree in music, one could assume I would have an idea of what defines music (I do, thankfully)
However, when it comes to determining what and what isn't music, I would agree with gif83 - music is like art (in reality, it IS art). But more on this later, perhaps.
and now:
THE FUNDAMENTALS OF MUSIC. Part 1
Anything considered music possesses these four qualities:
a) pitch/frequency
b) duration/rhythm
c) timbre/tone/sound colour
d) amplitude/volume
In a nutshell, this includes any sound we hear, since all sound possesses these qualities.
However..!
We can also include sounds we don't hear, as the fact that we cannot hear it is irrelevant. (So I'm not being PC - who cares? Don't start arguing about trees in woods)
Technically, sound is caused by vibrations, and since every single thing in this world moves..
Many of my compositions were inspired by John Cage, who has one particularly well-known piece which all of you will have heard, unless you're deaf (but that raises further questions) called 4'33". I reccomend you all listen to it
I've composed pieces of people building card houses, marching on the spot, slamming piano lids. I didn't quite get to setting one on fire and pushing it off a building, but Black Eyed Peas has already got a piano smashing in their clip anyway.
I recieved high marks for everything - ironic, because it's everything I considered music shouldn't be.
Did I call it music? Yes.
Musical? No.
However, go take a look at Duchamp's signed urinal, it's considered to be the most influential modern art work of all time. Is it really art?
In conclusion:
Music is music. (dooooooolce!)
BTW, I've just composed a new piece while writing this. It's called 'typing at the keyboard while picking your nose'. It's copyrighted, so be warned..
If you want to buy the CD, entitled KEYBOARD SOUNDZ (note the trendynezz!) it's only $24.95 from Te Warewhare.
Included tracks:
- typing at the keyboard while scratching your butt
- typing at the keyboard while poking your eye
Bonus track:
- typing at the keyboard while scratching your eye with your butt
Keep an eye out for my upcoming release, CLICKING THE MOUZE..
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