@kahlenz :
"Listening to music is not effortless for me. I must be intellectually and emotionally engaged to, at least, some extent. I have to, and want to, think about it."
For me, emotional engagement is absolutely key.
"Playing music in the background is not the same as listening to music (as I define it). Maybe I could characterize it as "hearing" music, or background noise. I usually find it distracting, and often unpleasant" I agree.
"Live music is a mixed bag. I absolutely love hearing live music played in a small room or outside at a small gathering. The sound of the human voice, unfettered by electronics or any kind of sound amplification device, is a wonder of experience"
Yes! This is why house concerts are so wonderful-- no amplification required!
The natural sounds of acoustic instruments reflect centuries of evolution and refinement as humankind is compelled by forces beyond our control to make music. Once you get amplifiers and speakers involved, it is harder for me to totally surrender to it (a good reproduction system can get you there to some degree, but it is a compromise).
Well, when I'm in the mood, I can certainly surrender to electric music. Not if the SQ is harsh/fatiguing, though. And I can listen to acoustic music for much longer than electric music.
"Live music shows involving electronics are not engaging in the same way. I do enjoy acoustic music played live (such as a really good orchestra in a great room), but most popular music shows are played through PA systems in acoustically compromised environments. I enjoy going to a good Rock show, but it's more about being there, seeing friends, and is generally a more tribal experience than a deeply satisfying music experience. I have been to many transcendent Grateful Dead shows, for example, but take away the crowd and the "recreational distractions" I can fairly conclude that the music sounds better on my home stereo".
My wife and I have pretty much stopped attending Rock shows because as you say, there are many non-musical aspects that we find seriously detract from experiencing the music-- which is our main concern. I'm not sure whether any of the handful of Dead shows I attended were "transcendent"-- blame the "recreational distractions". The 77 Santa Barbara show was probably pretty good, given that was a good year.
"I thoroughly enjoy listening to music on my modest home system. The components have been carefully selected to present an engaging and comfortable listening experience. I do not want to replicate a "live" experience. I want to be entertained for a couple hours in the comfort of my own home..."
I can relate.
"...maybe acompanied by a measure of 12 yeard old Scotch and and a bowlful of psychoactive plant material. When I am done listening, I'll turn the stereo off and go do something else".
I don't indulge anymore but whatever works for you...