Meaning Quote by Anonymous
“Since in music we deal with notes, not words, with chords, with transitions, with color and expression, the musical meaning always based on those notes as written and nothing else - has to be divined.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: Anonymous author, 2020
Musical meaning arises from notes, chords, and expression, not from lyrics alone.
In simple terms: Music's meaning comes from sound elements, not words.
Focus on listening to musical structure.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- Analyzing compositions
- teaching music
- composing
- listening critically
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How does instrumentation shape emotion?
- Can music convey meaning without any lyrics?
Some argue lyrics can dominate meaning, but instrumental aspects remain primary.