3min snip

Sean Carroll's Mindscape: Science, Society, Philosophy, Culture, Arts, and Ideas cover image

288 | Max Richter on the Meaning of Classical Music Today

Sean Carroll's Mindscape: Science, Society, Philosophy, Culture, Arts, and Ideas

NOTE

Balance Anticipation with Novelty

The pleasure derived from music hinges on the interplay between anticipation and novelty. A musical piece requires a foundation of rhythm and structure to be engaging; however, if it remains static and repetitive, it loses its essence. Success in music often lies in striking a balance between familiarity and innovation. Utilizing redundancy allows for a re-experiencing of themes while introducing subtle shifts creates a sense of novelty within a familiar framework. This approach enables listeners to steadily learn and familiarize themselves with the piece, allowing for poignant emotional responses when changes occur. For instance, in simplistic compositions with consistent elements like regular piano chords and bass tones, the introduction of new melodies serves as a transformative moment, akin to a new character entering a well-known room. Such a structured grammar in music enhances the overall effectiveness of the listening experience.

00:00

Get the Snipd
podcast app

Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
App store bannerPlay store banner

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode

Save any
moment

Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways

Share
& Export

Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode