A true appreciation of music involves becoming familiar with the technical
and mechanical elements that comprise music. This begins with learning about
the elements of sound and the human perception of sound. In the organized production
of sound through music, all elements are interrelated. Identifying the application
of tone color and dynamics in performance requires knowledge of instruments,
including the human voice. Likewise, understanding musical texture, form and
style require familiarity with rhythm, melody, and harmony. The physics of sound, mechanics of musical instruments, notes, scales and chords,
can be very intimidating concepts. But these concepts, and the systems used
to communicate them--like notation and music theory---are means of describing
something easily perceptible by the human ear. The resources in this section
provide information you can use to better understand the interrelated aspects
of the elements of music. Additional essential information on the nature of
sound, and its perception is also provided. |
2002 McGraw-Hill Higher Education