Is Music Material or Nonmaterial Culture?

Music is considered a form of nonmaterial culture. Nonmaterial culture encompasses the ideas, beliefs, values, and norms that shape a society. Music reflects the emotions, identities, and experiences of individuals and communities, serving as a powerful means of expression and communication.

While music is often performed with physical instruments or recorded on tangible mediums, its essence lies in the intangible qualities such as melodies, rhythms, and lyrics that evoke feelings and cultural significance. It transcends mere physicality, connecting people through shared experiences and cultural narratives. Thus, music, despite having material aspects, fundamentally represents nonmaterial culture.

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