What Is Absolute Music? And Its Enigma of Expression
Absolute music, a term often debated and discussed in the realm of musicology, refers to a form of art that strives to evoke emotions and feelings through sound alone, without the need for external reference or meaning. Unlike program music, which often tells a story or represents a specific idea, absolute music thrives in its own realm, a self-contained universe of pure sound and expression. This article seeks to explore the multifaceted nature of absolute music, delving into its origins, characteristics, and the various ways it manifests.
Origins of Absolute Music
Absolute music can be traced back to the late 19th century, when composers such as Claude Debussy and Erik Satie began to experiment with forms that were not bound by traditional rules or harmonies. They sought to express their emotions and ideas through pure sound, detaching music from any external references or stories. This movement was furthered by the rise of classical music in the 20th century, as composers like Leoni Mussolini and Igor Stravinsky experimented with new forms and techniques that pushed the boundaries of traditional music.
Characteristics of Absolute Music
1. Emotional Expression
Absolute music thrives in the realm of emotional expression. Through various harmonies, melodies, and rhythms, it aims to evoke certain feelings or moods without the need for any external reference. The listener is free to interpret the music as they wish, making each listening experience unique.
2. Use of Non-Traditional Techniques
Composers of absolute music often experiment with non-traditional techniques such as atonality, polytonality, and extended techniques of instrument playing. These techniques help them explore new sounds and ways of expressing their ideas.
3. Form and Structure
The form and structure of absolute music often reject traditional rules and forms. It may not follow a linear narrative or have a clear beginning, middle, and end. Instead, it may experiment with different time signatures, rhythmic patterns, and harmonies to create a more immersive and fluid listening experience.
Manifestations of Absolute Music
In Contemporary Art Music
Contemporary art music often incorporates elements of absolute music, pushing the boundaries of traditional forms and techniques. Composers such as Philip Glass and John Adams have experimented with forms that are not bound by traditional rules, incorporating elements of ambient music and electronics to create an immersive listening experience.
In Jazz and World Music
Jazz and world music also offer fertile ground for absolute music. Jazz musicians often improvise based on a given chord sequence or beat, creating music that is devoid of any external reference or meaning. World music, with its diverse traditions and forms, provides a platform for musicians to express their emotions and ideas through pure sound.
In Pop and Rock Music
Pop and rock music often incorporate elements of absolute music through the use of ambient soundscapes, experimental harmonies, and unconventional song structures. Artists such as Brian Eno and Radiohead have experimented with forms that are not bound by traditional song structures, creating music that is more immersive and open to interpretation.
In conclusion, absolute music is a form of art that strives to evoke emotions and feelings through pure sound. Its origins can be traced back to the late 19th century, with the advent of new forms and techniques that allowed composers to express their ideas freely through sound alone. Absolute music manifests in various forms across different genres of music, from classical to pop and rock. Its emotional expression, use of non-traditional techniques, and formless structure make it a unique and fascinating genre that continues to inspire musicians and listeners worldwide.（后面补充几个相关问答） 问答环节：关于绝对音乐的几个问题解答：
Q1: 什么是绝对音乐？ A1: 绝对音乐是一种通过声音本身来激发情感和感觉的音乐形式，它不需要任何外部参照或意义。它与节目音乐不同，节目音乐通常会讲述一个故事或表达一个特定的想法，而绝对音乐则在其自身的领域中生存，是一个纯粹的音响和表达的世界。
Q2: 绝对音乐的起源是什么？ A2: 绝对音乐的起源可以追溯到19世纪末，当时一些作曲家如克劳德·德彪西和埃里克·萨蒂开始尝试摆脱传统规则和和谐的音乐形式。他们通过纯粹的声音来表达自己的情感和想法，从而将音乐从任何外部参考中解脱出来。这种运动随着20世纪古典音乐的兴起而进一步发展。
Q3: 绝对音乐的特点是什么？ A3: 绝对音乐的特点包括情感表达、使用非传统技术和无定形的形式和结构。它通过各种各样的和声、旋律和节奏来激发某些情感，而无需任何外部参考。作曲家经常使用非传统的技术，如非调性、多调性和扩展的乐器演奏技巧，来探索新的声音和表达方式。此外，它的形式和结构经常拒绝传统的规则和形式，追求更沉浸式和流利的听觉体验。
Q4: