For millions of us, music is a very important part of life. In fact, for many of us, music plays a large part in our lives every single day! Therefore, it’s no wonder that it is such a fascinating subject. Here are some fun facts about music, how it works, and what makes it so popular all over the world.
1. It is a worldwide phenomenon that brings us all together.
You may have heard the phrase “music connects us all”, and, to a degree, that is true! Music is known as a universal form of expression found in cultures around the world, with various styles, genres, and traditions. Even far-flung communities that couldn’t be further apart from each other thrive on musical expression and enjoyment.
2. The oldest instrument in the world is a flute.
The oldest instrument that we know of is indeed a flute. It was made from bird bones and mammoth ivory, dating back over 40,000 years, found in the Swabian Jura region of what people now call Germany.
3. Scales vary depending on the culture.
Different cultures use a variety of scales and tonal systems in their music. For example, Western music often uses the diatonic scale, while Indian classical music utilizes the raga system.
4. Harmonies play a vital role in the way we listen to music.
The concept of harmonies has evolved over the centuries! In case you didn’t know, harmonies are different musical notes being played simultaneously to make a pleasing auditory combination. And, believe it or not, Pythagoras, a Greek mathematician and philosopher, made significant contributions to the understanding of musical intervals and harmonies around 500 BC!
5. Written music has allowed us to preserve music that is centuries old.
The creation and development of writing music in the Middle Ages allowed for music preservation across generations. Gregorian chant was among the earliest forms of notated music.
6. We can thank the Italians for modern pianos.
Modern pianos were invented in around 1700 by Bartolomeo Cristofori in Italy. It revolutionized music composition and performance by allowing a wide range of dynamics and tonalities.
7. Some believe that listening to classical music can enhance our brain functions!
Indeed, the Mozart Effect is a term used to describe the idea that listening to classical music, particularly works by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, can enhance cognitive abilities and creativity. However, the scientific validity of this concept is debated.
8. The Beatles still have unbeaten chart records.
We all know The Beatles as one of the most iconic pop bands of all time. They dominated the charts in the 60s on both sides of the Atlantic. But, did you know that they still hold the record for the most number-one hits on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the US? At the time of writing, at least!
9. Music therapy has been shown to have genuinely positive effects.
Music therapy is a field that uses music to address emotional, physical, cognitive, and social needs.
It has been shown to have therapeutic benefits for people with various conditions, including autism, dementia, and depression.
10. The world’s oldest song that we know of is from 1,400 BC!
The world’s oldest known song with notation is the “Hurrian Hymn No. 6”. It was composed in the ancient city of Ugarit (modern-day Ras Shamra, Syria) around 1,400 BC.
FAQs about Music
What is the most famous music?
It would be nearly impossible to determine the most famous music of all time! Many would suggest certain modern artists such as Michael Jackson, The Beatles, Taylor Swift, and Beyonce are the most famous, whereas others would suggest it is older classical music such as that composed Mozart or Beethoven which is the most timeless.
How does music affect us?
Technically speaking, music can affect our moods and mindsets in various ways. It can make us happy and even help release endorphins, just as it can make us angry and make us cry.
What is the difference between music and song?
Music can refer to mostly musical instruments coming together to make music. On the other hand, a song generally refers to music with lyrics and one or multiple singers.
Further reading:
https://facts.uk/tag/Music/
https://blog.landr.com/music-theory/
https://www.bamt.org/music-therapy/what-is-music-therapy
Do you know any fun facts about music? Share them in the comments below!