Throughout the centuries, men have practiced music. For some, the art is an expression of their will, for others it is an adjunct to ceremony, and for still others it serves the purpose of self-actualization.
In a musical context, the rhythm is the order of two or more notes played simultaneously. This rhythm organizes the elements of a song. It uses combinations of short durations to form a pleasing sound.
The melody is a sound that reflects the moral order of the universe. It imitates the movements of heavenly bodies and is based on the musical intervals.
The language of music is also an important part of human experience. Music is a form of communication that helps people regulate their emotions. Aristotle thought that music could influence the character of an individual. He advocated a rich musical diet.
The Stoics placed music in the service of virtue and moderation. Plato saw music as the reflection of divine harmony. Nevertheless, he feared that the sensual element of music was dangerous. He was a stern musical disciplinarian.
Georg Wilhelm Friedrich Hegel emphasized the intellectual qualities of music. He favored vocal music over instrumental music. He also deprecated wordless music.
Henri Bergson broke with the dichotomy between thought and feeling. He viewed music as closer to the inner dynamism of process.
In the mid-20th century, a new group of music theorists emerged. These theorists used the symbolist and formalist elements of the music theory to make significant contributions.