Where can I download samples of “absolute music” and “program music”?
Do you know what is considered absolute and program music? These are names placed on music not by the composer, but by scholars long after the music has been written. Absolute music (if you believe in it- some don’t) refers to music written for the sake of music, which means it has no function, no words, and shouldn’t create an image or story in your mind. It’s just pure music. Often times string quartets are considered absolute music… try a beethoven string quartet. Program music is the opposite of absolute music, and is easier to find. If it has words, it’s program (sort of), but if you want to be sure, find something from the Nutcracker, by Thichavsky. This music should tell a story, or have a function, like music for a ballet, opera, wedding, so on.
