noun a type of music that is not explicitly tied to any specific story, image, or idea
adjective describing the type of music that is absolute
Absolute music refers to instrumental music that is independent of any specific program or story, often focusing on purely musical elements such as form, harmony, and melody.
Composers such as Ludwig van Beethoven and Johannes Brahms are known for their contributions to the genre of absolute music, creating symphonies, sonatas, and other instrumental works that are considered masterpieces of the form.
In classical music, absolute music is a term used to describe instrumental music composed for its own sake, without any extramusical associations.
Absolute music became a prominent concept during the Romantic era, contrasting with program music which was intended to convey specific extra-musical ideas or stories.
In the context of writing about music or composing, 'absolute music' may be used to refer to instrumental music that is not intended to represent or depict anything outside of the music itself.
Psychologists may use 'absolute music' in the context of studying the emotional and psychological effects of purely instrumental music on individuals, without any explicit programmatic or narrative content.
Musicologists often use the term 'absolute music' to describe instrumental music that is self-referential and does not have any extramusical associations or meanings.
For composers, 'absolute music' can be a term used to describe compositions that are focused solely on musical form, structure, and expression, without any external program or narrative guiding the music.
Conductors may interpret and perform 'absolute music' by focusing on the musical elements such as harmony, melody, rhythm, and dynamics, rather than trying to convey a specific story or message through the music.