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How do you 'listen' to new music?

Coming new to classical and jazz music (many years ago) I was overwhelmed. I'd sit and listen and except for the simplist of pieces, full of melody, I just didn't get it. I found it necessary to devote a lot of time and effort to get to an appreciation of the music. Too much like work!

Some where along the line I decided not to work so hard. I'd buy a piece and just let it play as I did other things (as I am doing now) and letting myself become accoustomed to it. When I finally no longer found it indecipherable, and was finding it pleasant/comprehensible, I would then sit and really listen to it. If after playing it a few times it still didn't do anything for me, I'd put it away for a few years and then drag it back out.

Is this pecular to me? How have others made the cross over into jazz and classical music?
newbee
beemer
444 posts
 
Welcome to the great world of both jazz and classical music.

Do you have a public radio station in your area? This can be a great way to expand your musical horizons.

here in central massachusetts I am blessed as I get good choice. WGBH fm out of Boston, WFCR out of Amherst, and a commercial classical station WCRB.

Between these I get a great selection of classical, jazz, and historical and modern blues. Maybe your area may offer you the same.

Best,

Paul :-)
hodie
32 posts
 
Pretty much the same as you. I began listening to classical in college without much direction. Foolishly, I bought Boulez's Nonesuch "Le Sacre," slapped it on the turntable, sat down to listen, and thought "Is this a joke?" I persisted with it, and before long I couldn't get it out of my head. Same with jazz. I still don't know what the hell most of it's about. But something in me responds to it. Even the atonal stuff. I guess it's like looking at a painting: I might not have a clue about the artist's purpose, but I can admire the colors, the form (especially if it's a nude), and the medium.
siliab
362 posts
 
I find that listening to new music is like encountering a foreign language, a significant learning curve must be addressed before understanding it. Often, my initial discomfort is replaced by curiosity. I find that a lot of the music that I initially find abrasive, or jarring is music I ultimately enjoy greatly.
slappy
903 posts
 
hahaha
with my butt
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