What is music and why do we appreciate it?

Music plays an important role in all human cultures. Given that music is nothing more than a combination of sounds, what is the basis of its enduring and universal appeal?

How are we to account for and interpret people's taste for different genres of music - such as classical, blues, metal, rap, ethnic, rock and techno? Many people would agree that there are gender and ethnic differences in music appreciation and that our musical tastes change over time. What music interests you and why? How has your interest in music been expressed? Has it changed over time?

For many people, living life without music is unthinkable. For others, it makes for a pleasant background. Where does our fundamental interest in music stem from?

I will be bringing some short pieces of sampled music to stimulate discussion. If you have a particular piece you would like others to hear and discuss, please send me an email to include your selection. The best idea is to find your music on youtube and send me the link. I would love to have a broad range of samples for our discussion.