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Music Theory Appreciation

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4 November 2026

Music as a mathematical system versus an open environment

Some observers argue that music is fundamentally a mathematical system, an intricate arrangement of ratios and patterns that the brain is wired to decode. Proponents of this view suggest that musical proficiency relies on recognizing these predictable, logical structures, a…

3 November 2026

Compose by drawing melodies

Musical composition often benefits from shifting away from purely sonic constraints. When commissioned to score a player piano performance, Jeremiah Chiu composed by drawing images and words directly onto the paper scroll, prioritizing the visual narrative over traditional harmony. This…

2 November 2026

The Architecture of Spontaneous Composition

Musical improvisation functions as spontaneous composition, a practice requiring deep listening and the internalization of complex harmonic structures. Artists such as Keith Jarrett achieved this by developing technical mastery that allowed them to translate internal musical ideas into immediate performance…

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