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The Dichotomy of Music: Did It Evolve from Language or Stand Alone?

This section covers topics such as songwriting, composition, music production, and the creative process, as well as what is currently happening in the music scene, medical research, etc.

It is important to recognize that the statements in this section are solely my opinions and should not be taken as fact. It is important to do your own research and make decisions based on facts rather than opinion. It is also important to remember that opinions can change over time and should not be taken as concrete.

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Music, often described as a universal language, holds a unique position in human culture. However, the question of whether music originated as a form of communication akin to language or developed independently as an art form remains a contentious topic among scholars, musicians, and linguists. This article seeks to explore the dichotomy between the perspectives asserting that "music did not start as a language" and those claiming that "music starts as a language.”

Music Did Not Start as a Language

Proponents of the idea that music did not originate as a language argue that music is an independent entity, separate from verbal communication. They point out that the primary functions of music often transcend linguistic barriers, conveying emotions and ideas that are not easily articulated through words. For instance, the emotional impact of a symphony or the raw energy of a rock anthem can evoke feelings that words struggle to encapsulate. This perspective suggests that music serves as an emotional or spiritual outlet, rather than a means of dialogue.

Furthermore, many researchers highlight the biological and evolutionary aspects of music. Early human societies may have utilized music as a tool for social bonding, ritualistic purposes, or even as a form of entertainment. These functions do not necessarily imply that music began as a language. Instead, it may have stemmed from primal instincts or inner muse (creative-muse), emerging as a form of expression that complemented rather than replaced verbal communication.

Music Starts as a Language

In contrast, the argument that music starts as a language emphasizes the communicative aspects inherent in musical expression. Musicians often convey thoughts, narratives, and emotions through melodies, rhythms, and harmonies, paralleling the essentials of spoken language. This view posits that music's syntax and structure resemble those of language, with notes acting as words that create meaning through combinations.

Supporters of this perspective can point to cross-cultural similarities in musical forms that suggest a foundational language of music, capable of expressing complex ideas and facilitating social interaction. For instance, traditional folk songs often tell stories or preserve histories akin to oral storytelling. Additionally, young children instinctively use music to communicate their feelings before they acquire a verbal vocabulary, suggesting that music may serve as a primitive form of language in human development.

A Spectrum of Expression

Ultimately, the debate between these two viewpoints may be best understood not as a strict dichotomy but as a spectrum of expression. Music can be seen as both an independent art form and a complementary language. While it may not have originated as a formal language, its evolution is intertwined with human communication. The interplay between music and language reflects the complexities of human experience, social dynamics, and cultural practices.

Conclusion

In considering the nature of music, it becomes clear that both perspectives offer valuable insights into our understanding of this profound art form. Music is an intricate tapestry where emotional expression and linguistic communication intertwine. Whether one agrees that music did not start as a language or that it begins as one, it is undeniable that both music and language coexist in a symbiotic relationship, enriching human experience in ways that are both transcendent and deeply personal. As we continue to explore this fascinating dichotomy, we may find that the true essence of music lies in its capacity to harness the full spectrum of human emotion and thought, transcending the boundaries of language itself.

For further reading: Music and the Human Brain, Second Edition, by Eliasar A. Simon, MD, on Amazon.

For further music listening: Salidona.com

Eliasar A. Simon, M.D.