Classical Music

» mcrosbie - What causes us to remember music?

I have listened to classical music all my life and love it above all other music. I have also listed to and enjoyed many other types of music all my life. In regards to "memory" of the melodies, some melodies are definitely easier to remember than others. I am not highly educated in music, though I studied music theory at the Royal Conservatory of Music of Toronto and classical piano to the 8th grade level (grade 10 being the highest level). I have not taken any music history courses or harmony courses etc. I have read about composers that I enjoy.
I think the key factor in remembering music for me is first of all, it has to appeal to me. It needs to have a "melody" to remember (not all music has melody, I believe). Some is "mood" music to put it in very simplistic terms. If the melody is repeated numerous times throughout the piece of music it is easier to remember. I think music at a quick pace is easier for me to remember, but I am not sure. I can't stop getting back to the music have to be appealing to my personal sensibilities.
Another huge factor for me is I remember music I like if it touches me emotionally and is connected to a happy or sad time in my life. I tend to chose to listen and relisten to music that connects me to a memory that I desire to "conjure up" out of my brain in order to draw comfort and joy from it. I have used music to help me get out of depression. I was in a year-long depression and chose to rest and listen to Mozart concertos (to keep my sanity). It definitely helped me.

-- posted by mcrosbie

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