Does Appreciation of Complex Music Require Intelligence and Education?
Much like a foreign language, music often feels confusing and complex at first. However, the beauty and simplicity of music lie in the depth of understanding that comes with study. This article explores whether the appreciation of complex music necessitates a certain level of intelligence and formal education, backed by the wonderful learning experience provided by Audible, featuring the highly recommended program How to Listen to and Understand Great Music by Robert Greenberg.
Understanding Music: A Study in Simplicity and Complexity
Music is indeed a paradox. At first glance, it may seem like a maze of strange jargon and seemingly complex terminology. However, once you delve into its history and underlying principles, many concepts become quite straightforward. For instance, while it might initially appear daunting, the core notions that form the backbone of Western Classical music can be grasped in less than a hundred words.
Robert Greenberg, a renowned professor of Music History and Literature, offers a comprehensive course titled How to Listen to and Understand Great Music through The Great Courses. This program, available on Audible, is an Audible Audio Edition that takes you through the fascinating journey of Western Classical music. Professor Greenberg not only explains the musical concepts as they evolved but also provides listeners with a wealth of sample pieces to develop their analytical and listening skills.
Accessing the Profound with Ease
While Professor Greenberg's course is enriching for those with a background in music, it also offers valuable insights to those who are new to the field. With two degrees in music, the author of this article found much of the content fascinating and easily digestible, even though some parts were a review. The course is equivalent to a year-long college course at a top music program, covering a vast array of lesser-known and well-known classical composers and pieces.
Professor Greenberg's program not only provides a platform for understanding complex musical concepts but also reveals the reasons behind the greatness of various compositions. The experience of listening to and analyzing music with newfound knowledge is truly transformative.
Mind Over Matter?
Despite the profound insights offered by educational resources like Professor Greenberg's course, it is important to address the question of whether formal education and intelligence are prerequisites for appreciating complex music.
Not necessarily. Appreciation of music often does not require a profound understanding or much formal education. Access to the right resources, a genuine interest, and a willingness to listen can open up a world of musical enjoyment. Many autodidacts, those who teach themselves, have developed a deep appreciation for complex music without formal training.
Why Subscribe to Audible?
Subscribing to Audible offers a myriad of benefits. For a relatively small monthly fee, you gain access to a vast library of courses and books, including an array of music courses from Professor Greenberg and other renowned educators. These courses collectively offer a treasure trove of knowledge and a unique opportunity to engage with great musical works from the past thousand years.
In six months of courses, you can significantly enhance your understanding and appreciation of music. The total cost is around $60, but for 150 hours of high-quality content, it is undoubtedly worth every penny.
A Love for Learning and Music
The author's recommendation of this course stems from a genuine interest in sharing valuable educational resources. They are not affiliated with Audible or The Great Courses, but rather a fellow enthusiast eager to help others access the joy of understanding and appreciating complex music.
Whether you are a seasoned musician or a beginner, How to Listen to and Understand Great Music by Robert Greenberg is an excellent resource for anyone looking to deepen their appreciation and understanding of Western Classical music.
Keywords: music appreciation, complex music, formal education, Robert Greenberg, The Great Courses, Audible.