Leonard B. Meyer was a prominent American musicologist and philosopher, and a pioneer of the cognitive approach to music. His 1957 book, Emotion and Meaning in Music, made a significant contribution to cognitive musical psychology, and had a lasting influence on the study of music and its effects. In this book, Meyer explores the various ways in which music is understood, evaluates how it conveys emotional meaning, and investigates the relationship between music and its function in society. Here, we will discuss Meyer’s views on the connection between music and its function as a musical.
The Parameters of Music
Meyer argues that music can be understood in terms of a set of parameters: melody, rhythm, harmony, and form. Each of these parameters is associated with an individual emotion or feeling, but together they create a larger musical structure that expresses a more complex emotion. Meyer argues that these parameters can be combined in various ways to create a variety of different musical styles, each with its own unique character and emotional impact.
Music as Communication
Meyer also argues that music can be used as a form of communication. He points out that musical patterns often convey meaning beyond simple emotions and feelings; they can be used to express ideas and opinions in a powerful and often-times evocative way. Furthermore, he suggests that music has the potential to shape the way people think about and interact with the world around them.
In this sense, Meyer suggests that music is a powerful tool for conveying thoughts, feelings, and ideas, and for creating social change. He argues that music has the power to influence people’s attitudes, beliefs, and behaviours, and can be used as a powerful form of communication.
Music as an Expression of Identity
Meyer also argues that music can be used as an expression of identity. He suggests that music is an important part of the way we express our individual and collective identity, and shapes our understanding of ourselves and our relationship to the world. Meyer argues that music can help people explore and express their individual identities, and can serve as a unifying force for communities.
Overall, Meyer’s ideas about the connection between music and its function as a musical are both thought-provoking and insightful. His work has helped to shape our understanding of how music can be used to express emotion, communicate ideas, and create social and individual identity.