Vocal vs. Instrumental Music

Listening to music is as individual as you are. There is no “right” way to listen but there are some guidelines that might help you get you started.

Music is divided into two large categories: Vocal and Instrumental. If you have a strong preference for either category, that’s a place to start. My personal preference has always been Instrumental. This explains to a degree why I’ve always been drawn to Jazz and Classical. I have never personally been interested in Broadway or Opera or Pop or Folk or …

This, of course, has nothing to do with your preferences. If you are interested in Vocal music, lyrics mean something to you. In that case, get a copy of the lyrics and follow them as you listen. You’d be surprised how many listeners misunderstand the words and therefore, miss the meaning of a song. Lyrics can be viewed as a story or as poetry or as symbols. It’s fascinating to unravel words and their meaning. Don’t be surprised if someone else has an entirely different take on the “meaning” of the lyrics. That’s the creative side of listening.

On the other hand, if you’re fascinated by abstraction, you’re a good candidate for Instrumental music. In music without words, you have only the title to give you a hint about the music. And even with a title, it is still often ambiguous. Since there are no words to guide you, draw mental pictures and stories about what you hear. Don’t think too hard, just let your intuition and imagination run free. The Instrumental song is about what you feel it’s about. I never liked lyrics telling me what the story was about. Mental pictures, images and thoughts can flow easily as you listen. Don’t block yourself!

Keep listening and don’t be reluctant to listen a wide range of music. There is something in every kind of music to enjoy!