Listening yields meaning.
This is not to propose that such meaning is always apparent, even to the listener. It may be necessary to adopt a more objective perspective to ascertain the numerous possible meanings a sound, piece of music, or pattern of sounds suggests.
What is certain is that some compositions (and recordings) will have sustained, timeless value, while others are dated to particular settings and events, and still others are silly, frivolous, and disposable.
Then there are the ultimate sounds, the archetypes-- the storm surge, mountain wind, desert night and urban cacophony-- the screams and whispers at the origins of all that may be heard and expressed.
This is not to propose that such meaning is always apparent, even to the listener. It may be necessary to adopt a more objective perspective to ascertain the numerous possible meanings a sound, piece of music, or pattern of sounds suggests.
What is certain is that some compositions (and recordings) will have sustained, timeless value, while others are dated to particular settings and events, and still others are silly, frivolous, and disposable.
Then there are the ultimate sounds, the archetypes-- the storm surge, mountain wind, desert night and urban cacophony-- the screams and whispers at the origins of all that may be heard and expressed.
