First Advisor

Davenport, Mark

Reader

Howe, J. Thomas

College

Regis College

Degree Name

BS

School

Regis College Senior Honors Program

Document Type

Thesis - Open Access

Comments

Accounting, Business, Finance

Number of Pages

50 pages

Abstract

This thesis argues that Western Art Music (more commonly known as "classical music") should still matter to the modern person, because it has the ability to add specific aesthetic and scientific value to one's life. The goal is to make classical music enjoyable and accessible to all people, by making it understandable and breaking down the barrier of perceived elitism. Firstly, the current dilemmas facing Western Art Music today are outlined, including the lack of discussion surrounding classical music, the lack of knowledge of how to listen to classical music, the barrier of perceived elitism, and the issues classical music faces in the current American educational system. The thesis argues that Western Art Music matters because: 1) It is scientifically proven to enhance cognitive performance; 2) It is derived from the natural laws of the universe; 3) It connects humanity through time; 4) There is much emotional depth to be found in it; and 5) It is aesthetically evocative. Suggestions for listening and appreciation are given in the concluding section, including recommendations for the educational system, as well as suggestions for personal listening and enjoyment.

Date of Award

Spring 2015

Location (Creation)

Colorado (state); Denver (county); Denver (inhabited place)

Rights Statement

All content in this Collection is owned by and subject to the exclusive control of Regis University and the authors of the materials. It is available only for research purposes and may not be used in violation of copyright laws or for unlawful purposes. The materials may not be downloaded in whole or in part without permission of the copyright holder or as otherwise authorized in the “fair use” standards of the U.S. copyright laws and regulations.

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