Why Listening To And Playing Music Is Easier Than Ever Before

As far back as anyone can remember, there was song. Many even believe that the world was created to background music. So melody is nothing new, but how we consume and access those sounds has evolved, advancing dramatically throughout history. Here’s an interesting look at how much things have changed when it comes to listening and playing music in just a few centuries and how you can enjoy music like your granny never could!

Music Through the Ages

music 

Pre-recording

Before recording devices were available, music could only be heard by playing instruments live. Concerts were given in large music halls or by private appointment, but this greatly limited the accessibility by location, convenience, and means.

1800s

Music consumption took a tremendous leap forward. The earliest known musical recording was in 1857 when Leon Scott’s phonautograph recorded sounds though he was unable to play it back. In 1877, Thomas Edison invented the phonograph, making both recording and listening to music possible. Phonographic recording quickly evolved to commercialized vinyls, large discs that stored music. These were measured by diameter (12”, 7”) or speed (78, 33, 45).

 

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1900s

The early 20th century brought music to the masses via radio waves. Now anyone within civilized society could enjoy the sweet melodies of the times.

1950s-1970s

Huge advancements were made to further change the way people listened to music. A rough draft of the future cassette tape was rolled out in 1958, bringing on-demand music into the homes of people everywhere. In 1964, 8-tracks were introduced, and then people could even enjoy songs in the car. More advanced cassette tapes were developed in the 70s along with the walkman, providing portable entertainment. But the quality was poor, and we all know the pain of having to respool a cassette tape (or, at least, those of born pre-1985).

Compact Discs

The 1980s saw the beginning of the digital era for music, and consuming music would never be the same. CDs were wildly popular because the laser-written data storage could hold more music, produce clearer sound, and be stored and maintained more easily. (Remember MiniDisks? If you blinked in 1992, you might have missed them!)

MP3s

Modern technology has influenced music from every angle, helping people access, produce, record, and propagate music in revolutionary ways. With MP3s, iTunes, YouTube, Google, etc., we can access any genre, instrument, or artist with a few keystrokes.

Why Playing is Easier than Ever Before

Consuming music has changed dramatically throughout the ages, and so has the playing of instruments. Up until a few centuries ago, it was expensive, time-consuming, and for some people, impossible to learn to play music. Today you can:

  • Buy instruments for less, making it easier for those of limited means to play music.

  • Access apps that teach you how to play instruments of every type and level.

  • Set reminders and alarms to help you make time for your lessons.

Listening to and playing music has never been this simple, so what are you waiting for? Develop a talent that will change your life today. Check out JoyTunes for more on learning to play the piano.