Music Reflection Paper

731 Words2 Pages

This semester music class has taught me a lot on basic functions of musical sound, elements of music, and what a common beat is. When we first started class we discuss all this information and I received a lot of knowledge from it. For example duple means 2 beats per minute, and triple means 3 beats per minute. Understanding these elements enhances our listening, provides vocabulary for discussion, and increases our capacity to enjoy music.
What stood out to me the most in class is how each musician we talked about had a story to tell through their music. For example Woody Guthrie with the song “ This land is our land” was a great protest song. It was written in reaction to the great depression and how people couldn’t find work. This song also addresses social issues on the government not caring about its citizens. Another one was “Goodnight Irene” which addresses personal issues people may be dealing with. The lyrics discuss the idea of suicide to ease heavy hearts, overdosing on morphine, and jumping into a river.
I was really changed by how these musicians express their feelings through their music about different issues. It touched me because it really means something to these musicians on freedom and becoming equal. Most of these musicians have actually experience a tremendous amount of unfairness when growing up. It just makes me appreciate life and realize how differently things have changed throughout time. Music now you will hear about buying the most expensive cars, having sex, or just living some lavish life that we can’t afford. Music before my time touched on social issues that were going on in society that were relevant.
Another issue that was talked about in music class that touched me was when we discuss Ev...

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...o, I have a different perspective than before I was enrolled in this class. When in the car for example if it wasn’t rap or any kind of R&B I would change the radio station. Or if I didn’t want to listen to commercials I would plug my iPod in with just rap music playing. I have now got out of my selective ways when it comes to music and enjoy listening to different genres.
I think sometimes the choices of music you listen to really are determine by what you were brought up listening to or always heard. Also how you can relate to the music is another reason. If you hear for an example this rapper talking about how they were brought up and what would go on in a typical black family I could really relate to that message he/she was trying to deliver. Growing up was never easy it was always a struggle or an extra step to get were I wanted to be and satisfied in life.

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