Music With No Literary Basis Is Referred To As

Music With No Literary Basis Is Referred To As: Exploring the Vast Landscape of Instrumental and Abstract Music

The question, "Music with no literary basis is referred to as...?" doesn't have a single, universally accepted answer. The term used depends heavily on the context, the type of music, and the perspective of the person describing it. However, we can explore several terms and concepts that encompass music lacking a direct literary or narrative connection. This exploration will delve into the rich tapestry of instrumental music, abstract music, and the various ways composers express themselves without relying on explicit storytelling.

Understanding "Literary Basis" in Music

Before defining music without a literary basis, let's clarify what we mean by "literary basis." In this context, it refers to music that directly sets a text (like a poem, play, or novel) to music (as in song cycles or operas). It also encompasses music that explicitly tells a story or evokes a specific narrative through its structure, themes, and programmatic elements (like programmatic symphonies). Music with a literary basis aims to translate a pre-existing text or narrative into a musical experience.

Terms for Music Without a Literary Basis

Many terms describe music lacking a direct literary basis. These terms often overlap and aren't mutually exclusive. The best choice depends on the specific characteristics of the music:

1. Absolute Music:

This is perhaps the most common and widely accepted term for music without a literary or programmatic basis. Absolute music focuses on the inherent musical qualities—melody, harmony, rhythm, form, and timbre—for their own sake. The listener's experience is primarily aesthetic and emotional, derived from the interaction of these musical elements, rather than from a narrative or extra-musical concept. Examples abound in the classical repertoire, including many symphonies, string quartets, and piano sonatas by composers like Beethoven, Mozart, and Bach. These pieces often employ sophisticated structures and formal techniques, creating complex and rewarding listening experiences without resorting to storytelling.

2. Instrumental Music:

While not entirely synonymous with absolute music, instrumental music is closely related. It simply refers to music performed on instruments without vocals. Much instrumental music is absolute, focusing on instrumental textures and sounds, but some instrumental pieces might be programmatic, telling a story or evoking images. Therefore, instrumental music is a broader category, encompassing both absolute and programmatic works.

3. Abstract Music:

Abstract music is a more modern term, often associated with 20th and 21st-century composers. It emphasizes the exploration of musical sounds and structures in a non-representational way, often eschewing traditional harmonic and melodic structures. Think of experimental music, musique concrète (music made from recorded sounds), and certain forms of electronic music. These compositions often prioritize the sonic experience over recognizable melodies or traditional forms. Abstract music seeks to explore the raw material of sound itself, creating unique and often challenging listening experiences.

4. Pure Music:

Similar to absolute music, pure music emphasizes the intrinsic beauty and expressive power of musical elements without external references. The focus is on the formal organization and aesthetic qualities of the music itself.

5. Non-Programmatic Music:

This term directly contrasts with programmatic music. Non-programmatic music lacks a detailed narrative or descriptive program provided by the composer. It's designed to stand alone as a purely musical experience, relying on its internal coherence and aesthetic impact.

The Nuances and Overlaps

It's important to note the subtle differences and overlaps between these terms. For instance, all absolute music is instrumental, but not all instrumental music is absolute. Similarly, abstract music often falls under the umbrella of absolute music, but absolute music doesn't necessarily need to be abstract. The distinctions can sometimes be blurry, and the best term to use might depend on the specific musical piece and the individual's interpretation.

Examples Across Genres

The concept of music without a literary basis spans various genres and historical periods:

Classical Music:

The vast majority of classical music's instrumental works—sonatas, concertos, symphonies, string quartets, etc.—are considered absolute music. Composers like Haydn, Mozart, Beethoven, Schubert, Brahms, and many others created masterpieces that stand on their own merit without needing a story or program to understand their beauty and depth.

Jazz:

While jazz often incorporates improvisation and storytelling within its musical structure, much instrumental jazz, such as bebop or free jazz, prioritizes the exploration of musical ideas and improvisation over explicit narrative. The focus is on the interplay between musicians, the development of themes, and the creation of unique sonic textures.

Electronic Music:

Electronic music offers a vast landscape of soundscapes and abstract musical expressions. Many electronic music pieces are purely instrumental and abstract, exploring the possibilities of synthesizers, samplers, and other electronic instruments without a clear narrative or program. Ambient music, drone music, and many forms of experimental electronic music fall into this category.

World Music:

Many traditions within world music feature instrumental music that doesn't necessarily tell a story or follow a clear narrative. Instrumental music from various cultures serves diverse functions, from ritualistic ceremonies to social gatherings, but the music itself often prioritizes its aesthetic qualities and expressive potential.

The Importance of Context and Interpretation

Ultimately, the way we perceive a piece of music as having or lacking a literary basis is partly subjective. Even in absolute music, listeners may project their own narratives or emotional responses onto the music. The composer's intentions, the musical structure, and the listener's background and experiences all contribute to the overall interpretation. What one person hears as purely abstract, another might find imbued with hidden meanings or evocative imagery.

The Ongoing Evolution of Musical Expression

The boundaries between music with and without a literary basis are constantly being challenged and redefined. Contemporary composers continue to push the limits of musical expression, creating works that blur the lines between traditional forms and experimental approaches. The ongoing exploration of sound, form, and musical language ensures that the landscape of music will continue to evolve, offering diverse and exciting experiences for listeners.

Conclusion: A Spectrum of Musical Expression

The question of what to call music without a literary basis doesn't have a single definitive answer. Terms like absolute music, instrumental music, and abstract music provide valuable frameworks for understanding this broad category of music, but they often overlap and are context-dependent. Ultimately, the beauty of music lies in its diverse forms of expression, whether it tells a story or simply invites listeners to engage with its intrinsic beauty and emotional power. The richness and diversity of musical experiences across genres and styles highlight the expansive and ever-evolving nature of musical creativity. Whether deeply programmatic or purely abstract, music continues to captivate, inspire, and challenge us in countless ways.