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View Full Version : Comparing and evaluating music.

zephed
08-08-2005, 05:42 AM
Most of us like to discuss music here in OOT. Invariably, someone will make a post stating that one such work of music is greater than another without stating why (see this classical music thread (http://forumserver.twoplustwo.com/showflat.php?Cat=&Number=3081851&page=0&view=colla psed&sb=5&o=14&fpart=1)).

I'm really curious as to how one would put into words why one work > another.

What do you use to evaluate the quality of a music piece on its own?

I also propose that from now on, when comparing two works, that you TRY TO state why you think one is better than the other.
Piz0wn0reD!!!!!!
08-08-2005, 05:47 AM
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What do you use to evaluate the quality of a music piece on its own?

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it is entirely subjective if you are not a good musician well versed in music theory.
zephed
08-08-2005, 06:12 AM
[ QUOTE ]
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What do you use to evaluate the quality of a music piece on its own?

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it is entirely subjective if you are not a good musician well versed in music theory.

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Are you well versed in music theory? If so, could you answer the original question at all? Cliffs notes version is fine if you don't want to write a thesis.
Claunchy
08-08-2005, 06:30 AM
Music's always going to be largely subjective, but I think there are ways to differenciate between good and bad music without necessarily being a theory expert. People who are well-versed in theory typically have little use for pop music anyway, as most of it's very simplistic. Perhaps someone else will come along and explain this more eloquently than I can, but here are some things I look for in good music.

Is the music somewhat inventive or completely contrived? It's naive to think that any pop/rock artist is "totally original," but some are definitely more inventive than others.

Also, how are the lyrics? They don't necessarily have to compare to great poetry or anything, but are they clever or interesting? Do they make you feel something on a level greater than that of a high school sophomore (or QLC poster)?

Live shows are a good criterion too. I've seen bands that I thought were mediocre on recording only to be blown away by their energy on stage.

Hope this was somewhat helpful.
Piz0wn0reD!!!!!!
08-08-2005, 06:32 AM
[ QUOTE ]

Are you well versed in music theory? If so, could you answer the original question at all? Cliffs notes version is fine if you don't want to write a thesis.

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i am not well versed in music theory. I have studied it, but not for years and not in depth. there are music theory and other forums that might give you beter info.
Piz0wn0reD!!!!!!
08-08-2005, 06:33 AM
zeplin pwns btw.
zephed
08-08-2005, 07:08 AM
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zeplin pwns btw.

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So you are a music theory expert!
zephed
08-08-2005, 07:10 AM
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Also, how are the lyrics? They don't necessarily have to compare to great poetry or anything, but are they clever or interesting? Do they make you feel something on a level greater than that of a high school sophomore (or QLC poster)?

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What about Chuck Berry's lyrics?

I get what you're saying though.