Scales
and Bars!
Some
precise thinking of note by Nigel A JAMES
Music
is something we all understand. Everyone knows what it means, and it
is the one thing in the world which we all have in common. Music is
as essential as the air which we breathe and the water we drink.
Music is life! And music, just like life, can be many things, too.
It is not only as diverse as the people who love it, it is more!
To
begin with, music is audible emotional feelings, and therefore fully
dictates the way which we feel. When it slows down, we slow down -
and when it speeds up, we speed up, too. This, of course, is perfect
for parties, shopping and Sundays at church! But, music can have its
dangerous sides, too!
Music
is the great manipulator. There is no other medium that can beat it
when it comes to controlling feelings and emotions. It has been
successfully used by all sides in wars for sometimes brilliant
propaganda, Marlene Dietrich and Vera Lyn are perfect examples.
But, of course, the right beat can win battles, too. In some cases
music actually gave hope in hopeless situations. There are many
recorded cases of armies nearing defeat, which, thanks to the right
marching tune went on to great victory. (Napoleon being the perfect
example)
But,
of course, music isn't only useful for war, there are peace time
winnings as well. And, love is the name of the game! What would
romance be without soft violins? And how many people have given
their love a second chance by listening once again to “our tune”
whilst their marital bliss was steering its way at full speed
against the rocks of destruction? How many marriages, I wonder, would
have been saved if only there had been a record player handy? Music
not only creates, it kills and cures, too!
And,
creating is probably one of music's greatest achievements. Music,
when played in a classroom helps children with learning. And, not
only that! Experiments in Sweden have proved that children who learn
musical instruments are often more intelligent than others! All very
amazing!
And,
being intelligent can also be good. It was the American students in
the 60s and 70s who used music to support their anti-war
demonstrations. And, thanks to the songs of Pete Seeger and Joan Baez
they succeeded! And, music can be good for the black side of war,
too!
War,
unfortunately, means injury and suffering, and many hospitals now use
music for curing. Many tests have shown that war victims recover much
faster whilst enjoying soft music. Dusty Springfield and Mozart are
best.
Of
course, there is much, much more to music than meets the eye (or
should I say ear?). But, one thing is certain, music means the same
thing to everyone everywhere. It is the one true international
language, and, the good thing is it doesn't need learning! Everyone
can do it, it's as simple as listening and repeating, so everyone's
in with a chance. It's there for the taking, and, if you're looking
for friends – there's no better place! Music brings people
together, and being together is life. Music is the nature of man, and
where there is peace there is music!
Nj
– April 2014
