Last week, I discussed some of the ways in which music helps you know yourself better. This time, I will continue on in the vein of music as a means of conveying truth, focusing on how music can teach you about the world around you.
Music can be used to impart even the most basic of information. I am willing to bet that the majority of you, dear readers, learned the alphabet by singing a song. It is also very likely that "Old MacDonald's Farm" taught many of you what sounds common domestic animals make.
For some reason, linking information to music often helps us remember it better. There are countless songs out there about historical and biblical topics. I memorized a number of Bible verses thanks to the Hide 'Em In Your Heart series of CDs that I listened to when I was very young.
Music also teaches us about the world in general. Cultural identity is often wrapped up in music; most countries have a national anthem. Through various melodies and lyrics, we can more fully appreciate that which is beautiful in the world, and that which is horrible.
There are so many incredible classical pieces that highlight the beauty of nature. Short pieces like Frédéric Chopin's "Raindrop" and Heitor Villa-Lobos' "Song of the Black Swan" are a wonderful little taste. More awe-inspiring yet are the wonderful orchestral pieces, such as "In the Fen Country" by Ralph Vaughan Williams or "The Birds" by Ottorino Respighi.
Yet, nature can also be frightening, even in its beauty. "Storm" by Benjamin Britten is one orchestral piece that captures this well. Another is the main theme to the movie "Earthquake" by John Williams. This kind of music is still great to listen to, but it makes me a little uncomfortable to be reminded of my fragility.
Music is so versatile. Not only does it paint a picture of nature, but it can show us our culture. Shifting over to songs with words, I'll mention a few that make this very clear. Depending on where you look, you can find a song about pretty much any cultural value.
"How Far I'll Go" from "Moana" recalls the itch of a dream that won't give up. We have songs like "Sweet Tennessee" by Judah and the Lion, highlighting the value of home and family. Then there are songs like "Money, Money, Money" by Abba, which shows just how materialistic we can be sometimes.
I've only scratched the surface of how music describes the world around us. If I had my druthers, I would spend much longer writing about this. For now, though, I hope I've encouraged you to think about the importance of music in your life.
