Music: An Art and a Language

by Walter Raymond Spalding

"Music: An Art and a Language" by Walter Raymond Spalding is a scholarly publication written in the early 20th century. The work focuses on the appreciation of music, exploring its grammar and structure to foster a deeper understanding and love of the art form. It aims to guide readers in grasping music's complexities and its emotional and intellectual powers, encouraging active engagement rather than passive enjoyment. The opening portion of the book emphasizes the elusive nature of music, asserting that while it can provoke deep emotional responses, it resists definitive definitions. Spalding discusses important elements like rhythm and sound, highlighting that music functions as a language of emotional expression. The text suggests methods for listeners to develop their musical understanding, stressing the importance of familiarity and intellectual engagement with compositions to truly appreciate their richness and depth. Furthermore, the author provides insights into the foundational concepts of music, including musical grammar and the significance of overall structure, setting the stage for more detailed exploration in subsequent chapters.