Music can be very personal, as it can have different meanings for different people. A particular piece might revive a long-lost memory, bring up intense emotion, or connect complete strangers. No matter what style you enjoy, if the composer or songwriter connects with you on a personal level, music has the power to inspire you to creativity. Or, it may just lift your spirits enough to get through the day.
In a way, the music we hear becomes the soundtrack of our lives that encourages, consoles, celebrates, and propels us. It is one of the cornerstones of our humanity and allows us to thrive, reminding us that we are emotionally charged creatures. In short, music helps us live.
Lots of people have special memories from important times in their lives, and they are often taken back to these moments when they hear a specific song or melody. Have you ever heard song lyrics that remind you of your first girlfriend/boyfriend? Do you never tire of listening to the soundtrack from a favorite movie? Do you swell with pride when you hear a particular patriotic tune? A wedding, prom, birthday, first kiss, funeral, special award, favorite movie scene or character theme—all of these and more can help us remember special people, places, and events in our lives.
While many composers and songwriters have been inspired by love (either finding or losing it), we have the capacity to connect with any emotion when it is put to music: adoration, anger, lust, grief, loyalty, serenity, joy, confusion, jealousy, etc. Some tunes may be tougher to find than others, but they’re out there.
Many say that music is the universal language, and if you think about all the folk songs, love songs, marches, dance and celebratory tunes, lullabies, movie soundtracks, television themes, and other music created since the beginning of human existence, you would probably agree. There is a rhythm and a musical style to help bring strangers together in almost any situation. Even when traditional language barriers exist, playing or listening to music together will (ideally) help folks from different backgrounds and cultures relate to each other through this shared experience.
What music did you have for your prom, wedding, or special birthday?
What movie or TV show do you feel would just not be the same without its soundtrack?
What piece never bores you?