Art is a topic that is often discussed. Art is an integral part music. It is important to first understand art before you can understand music.
What exactly is art? Many people have attempted to define art. It does not have to be limited to one embracive definition. Most people view any craft as art. Maybe because it derives from an older word that meant “arm”, or “to create”. It’s more complicated than that. Many people associate beauty with something that is pleasing in appearance or sound. But there’s more.
Fine art (i.e. performing, visual) is more transcendental and has greater effects. Fine art is not offered in higher educational institutions. However, it is intrinsic in the individual. To be admitted to universities, you will need to audition and have a portfolio. The idea is that it’s not just about technical skills or techniques; it’s the artist who creates an emotional connection with the viewer or listener.
Art is a human invention that attempts to produce an emotional effect. It does not need to be pleasurable. Alfred Hitchcock is known for his dark, sometimes even gruesome movies. Tchaikovsky is one example of a composer who has written very somber music. These pieces are often beautiful and make an impact on the listener. They can cause strong emotions.
Craft refers to technique, but it is just the vessel that makes expression possible. Artists are the one doing the expression. The vision is a spiritual one. The vision is spiritual. This is not religion.
Some musicians believe that emotions are best expressed from the heart. They actually come from deeper within themselves, from the life force. This is something a musician needs to know, otherwise his expressions may be too dry. He should not use logic or reason to express himself. Instead, he (the spiritual power) should express himself directly. An analogy would be a living corpse laid in an open coffin during a funeral. It might be clean, tidy, and painted with rosy eyes to give it life. Its exterior looks are not what it needs to be, however, it still has no life. It is losing its main essence. That is what one can actually see. The same principle applies for a lifeless performance. There is no expression. You can express yourself emotionally, but it’s not art if you do it on a strictly mental level. This also applies to the major elements of music composition and performance.
Musicians of all levels and any genre can always improve. The musician, who is the driving force behind any technical aspect, no matter how complex or simple, is the driving force. He should realize that he’s a powerful being.
