A post by Layla spurred a recollection of something I wrote (for the nth time *heh*) back in 2006:
One of the primary reasons I am a fan of Classical (and even much classical *heh*) music is not just because the music is complex, beautiful and compelling but because it is the expression of a particular ethos which our society sorely lacks.
Aside from technical matters of form, the Principles of Classicism as found in Classical Music were
- balance
- clarity
- accessibility
- expressiveness
- edification
Although two of these principles are still found in abundance in contemporary music (though not in contemporary “serious” or “academic” music, IMO) it is the lack of the others, especially the last, that has seriously harmful effects upon our society.
Keep in mind that the Principles of Classicism can be found in Kenny Rogers’ “The Gambler” as easily as in Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony. It’s not the genre but the genuine artistry and teleos that makes the difference.
When the only principles of an “artist’s” presentation (I won’t call the presentation Layla displayed music or even the “artist” an artist, without the denigrating quotation marks) are expressiveness and accessibility and the presentation itself lacks any real art, all it usually has going for it is just groping for the groin. It’s not even as useful as fecal matter, as fecal matter can at least be useful in compost.
If it touches your soul and directs your thoughts to a higher plain then it is worth your time and effort.
David thank you for the kind mention and I happy that it caused you to repost this. I remember when you wrote it.
It is truly sad that in this day and age that our kids are being influxed with this smut. For me this is like watching a slow death of our morals, classical music as we know it, and kids going along with it like they were given candy. It is sick.
Not to be harsh, but like I once said to my parents, you thought that The Beatles and Elton John were bad, that was at least music, perhaps not music you chose to listen to, but at least music – now it is just trash talk and people with a lot of gall to call it “music.” Pfffffffft!
Again, thanks for the kind mention my friend.
Much contemporary “music” (so-called) is just toxic fecal matter, wrapped up and presented as candy, and the self-lobotomizing “idjits” who partake of it can’t even taste what they’re eating…
Heck, even much of the stuff that’s not completely awful is like a glass of milk with a turd floating in it. “But, it’s just a little turd! Go ahead and drink your milk… ” *feh*
Sorry for the typos…bad cold here and I think it is getting to me. I have to post later. Stop by when you have time. I promise something interesting.
I am thinking of reposting my fictional story Rachel. When I first posted it when I was The Hill Chronicles everyone thought it was a true story, a few were upset with me when they found out it is fictional – so, if I repost it, remember I wrote it off the top of my head and your critique is always welcome.
🙂
[I nuked the typo for ya. 😉 Get well, soon. –ed]