Expert: David Froom - 5/1/2008

Question
Whats the difference between listening to modern music and pre-modern music?

Answer
There really is no difference in listening.  What you may be asking about has to do with familiarity with the style.  Familiarity allows you to have a set of expectations that are fulfilled in what seem to be normal ways.  After you listen to enough music of any kind to become familiar with the kinds of things that happen, you'll see that listening is the same.

For me, I always listen in the same way, no matter the music.  When I hear something that is extremely unfamiliar (I know very little Indonesian or Indian or African or South American or Middle Eastern or Far Eastern music), it seems odd and frustrating.  I have to keep in mind that millions of people are made happy by this music.  For a short cut, sometimes I can read a book or take a class -- that acts as a kind of tour guide.  This helps me understand the kinds of things experienced listeners expect, in terms of genres, forms, instrumental combinations, and extra-musical references.  Then I can begin to "get" it.  

David Froom