Why Children Love Old School Music and How It Shapes Their Musical Taste
Music is a powerful cultural force that can shape a person's identity and preferences from a very young age. Often, when children develop a taste for old school music, it raises questions about their musical evolution and cultural appreciation. This article delves into the reasons why children might develop a preference for older genres and how this preference reflects a natural and evolving taste for music over time.
Age Is No Barrier to Enjoying Classic Genres
The question of whether children's love for old school music is acceptable is often met with curiosity and even skepticism from some corners. However, the truth is that age has nothing to do with the genre of music that one enjoys. It’s entirely valid and admirable when children have a fascination with age-old musical styles. This curiosity often stems from the fact that children have not yet been influenced by the social pressure to conform to current trends.
Take, for instance, the story of my piano students. Many of them have developed a natural appreciation for classical music, and I take this as a positive sign. By nurturing and encouraging their interest in classical music, I believe I am helping them to build a solid foundation of musical taste. This approach not only enriches their musical education but also teaches them to appreciate the timeless beauty and complexity of classic compositions.
Appreciation for Timeless Power in Music
Music that stands the test of time often has an enduring influence on listeners. The enduring appeal of classic styles such as classical, jazz, and traditional folk music lies in their ability to evoke deep emotions, convey profound messages, and reflect the cultural and historical context in which they were created.
Many children's love for old school music is often a reflection of their natural appreciation for timeless power in music. When children enjoy music from decades or even centuries ago, it can be said that they are not only responding to the quality of the music but also to the historical and cultural significance it carries. This appreciation can be seen as a sign of their natural curiosity and sensitivity to the richness of human culture.
Evolution of Musical Taste Over Time
Musical tastes evolve as individuals grow older and gain more life experience. As one matures, their understanding of music and culture deepens, leading to the development of a more refined and diverse appreciation for various genres. It is entirely possible to develop a deep love for a wide range of music, including old school genres, throughout one's life.
For example, in my own experience, I cultivated a love for music from a young age, listening intently to my father's collection of 78 RPM records from World War II, which were considered old school even in the 1960s. This early exposure to a variety of classical and historical music laid the foundation for my evolving musical taste over the years. I grew to love rock and popular music from a later era, much like how children today can embrace a wide array of music genres.
The journey of musical appreciation is a lifelong one. Just as I continue to enjoy contemporary music, it is not uncommon for someone to be a fan of cutting-edge electronic music like Autechre even at an age of 68, like myself. The members of Autechre, Sean and Rob, themselves well into their 50s now, are prime examples of how musical tastes can evolve and persist over a long period.
In conclusion, the love for old school music among children is a natural and commendable expression of their musical preferences. It reflects a deep appreciation for the timeless power of music and an innate curiosity about historical and cultural heritage. As individuals grow and develop, their musical tastes may change, but the appreciation for classic and powerful music often remains a lasting and cherished aspect of their lives.