Music Thesis Statements

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Essay About Music

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Essay About Music for Any Student

Our extensive article will walk you through the complex process of writing an essay about music. We’ll present you with a step-by-step guide on conveying the subtleties of music through writing, from picking an exciting topic and doing extensive research to dissecting musical aspects and adding personal observations.

Whether you’re analyzing the historical significance of a musical era, assessing the influence of a particular musician or band, or investigating the cultural and emotional aspects of music, our guide seeks to provide you with the fundamental knowledge and abilities required to write a well-reasoned essay. Come along on this journey with us as we explore the skill of turning music’s profound message into an engaging story.

Essays about Music: Importance and Impact

Music is a profound expression of human creativity, emotion, and culture that transcends cultural boundaries. It serves as a companion, providing solace and amplifying the human experience. Its influence extends beyond individuals, shaping the collective identity of communities and contributing to global culture.

To effectively explore the world of writing about music, one must first understand the fundamental elements that constitute this universal language. The music encompasses a vast array of sounds organized in a structured manner, from classical symphonies to contemporary pop hits, traditional folk tunes, and avant-garde experimental compositions. The diversity of musical forms reflects the kaleidoscope of human creativity, and understanding this diversity lays the groundwork for appreciating the nuanced aspects of different genres and styles.

Music’s emotional and cultural impact is remarkable, as it evokes feelings ranging from joy to sorrow, nostalgia to anticipation. It is a vessel for cultural narratives, preserving traditions and reflecting the spirit of an era. Exploring music’s emotional and cultural dimensions provides writers with a rich tapestry of motifs to weave into their essays about music, allowing for a more profound exploration of the human experience through the lens of musical expression.

Choose Essay Topics About Music

The essay-writing process involves selecting a topic that shapes the narrative and allows the writer to explore the intricacies of musical expression, history, and cultural impact. There are three main ways to choose essay topics about music:

  • Selecting a specific genre or style: Each genre has unique characteristics, histories, and cultural contexts. For example, the evolution of hip-hop can be explored by examining its roots in African and African-American communities, its socio-political impact, and the artistic innovations that have shaped its trajectory over the decades.
  • Exploring the historical significance of a musical era: Music has reflected societal changes, political movements, and cultural shifts throughout history. Writers can focus on a specific period, such as the Renaissance, the Roaring Twenties, or the counterculture movements of the 1960s, and analyze how the music of that era influenced and was affected by the broader socio-political landscape. For example, an essay could explore the impact of the Beatles during the tumultuous 1960s, examining how their music mirrored the cultural upheavals of the time and influenced popular music.
  • Analyzing the impact of a particular artist or band: Focusing on the life and work of a specific artist or band allows for a detailed examination of their contributions to the musical landscape, unique style, artistic evolution, and lasting impact on music and society. For example, an essay focused on Bob Dylan’s impact could explore his role as a poet-prophet during the folk revival of the 1960s, his transition to electronic music, and his enduring influence on subsequent generations of musicians.

Understanding the background of the chosen topic is essential for providing readers with a comprehensive view of its development and significance. That’s what we are going to analyze further.

Understanding Music Essay Examples

In crafting an insightful essay about music, it is crucial to conduct thorough research. This involves using credible sources such as scholarly articles, books, academic journals, and reputable websites dedicated to music history, theory, and criticism. By drawing on authoritative sources, writers can ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information in their essays.

This involves delving into the historical evolution of the genre, key milestones, and cultural influences that shaped its trajectory. By studying the background, writers can contextualize the music within a broader historical narrative, unraveling the threads that connect artistic expression to the time’s social, political, and cultural landscapes. For example, if the essay focuses on the development of blues music, researching the historical roots in African American communities, migration patterns that spread the genre, and its evolution through different regions and eras would be integral to providing a nuanced understanding.

Understanding the cultural context of the music adds depth and richness to the narrative. Culture shapes and is shaped by music, and understanding this symbiotic relationship is crucial for a comprehensive analysis. Writers should explore the societal norms, values, and movements that influenced the creation and reception of the music they are examining. They should consider the cultural milieu, social dynamics, and even geographical influences that contributed to forming a particular musical style.

In conclusion, the research and information-gathering phase lays the groundwork for a well-informed and insightful exploration of the chosen music essay examples. By utilizing credible sources, studying the background, and understanding the cultural context, writers can embark on a journey that informs, captivates, and enriches the reader’s understanding of music in its multifaceted dimensions.

How to Write an Essay About Music – Valuable Insights

A well-structured essay about music is essential for capturing the reader’s attention and understanding of the subject matter. The essay should follow a structured approach, starting with an introduction about music essay that captures the reader’s attention with a compelling hook. This can be a thought-provoking question, anecdote, quote, or surprising fact. The thesis statement should clearly articulate the central argument or perspective of the essay, outlining the central theme and key points to be explored in subsequent sections.

The body paragraphs should be divided into distinct paragraphs dedicated to a specific aspect or point related to the thesis. Evidence and examples should be provided to support arguments, such as quoting lyrics, citing critical reviews, or referencing historical events. This helps provide a comprehensive understanding of the chosen topic.

Maintaining a logical flow between paragraphs is crucial, as it helps readers follow the logical progression of the essay and understand the relationships between different aspects of the topic. Transitional phrases and explicit connections between ideas help readers follow the logical progression of the essay.

In the conclusion, summarize critical points discussed in the body paragraphs, reinforcing the thesis statement and emphasizing how the evidence presented throughout the essay supports the overarching argument. This reinforces the central theme and leaves a lasting impression on the reader. In the Beatles essay, the conclusion might reiterate how their innovative approach to music defined a generation and left a significant mark on popular music history.

Lastly, the argumentative essay about music should leave a lasting impression on the reader by connecting the themes to broader cultural or societal implications or posing a thought-provoking question that encourages further reflection. In the case of the Beatles essay, the conclusion might invite readers to consider the ongoing impact of their music on contemporary artists or encourage reflection on the timeless nature of artistic innovation.

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Write a strong thesis statement.

A strong thesis statement is vital for a music essay, providing a clear roadmap for the writer and the reader. It defines the central argument or perspective, ensures clarity and relevance, and sets the tone for music essays. A concise and focused articulation of the central argument or perspective is essential, such as analyzing the cultural impact of a genre, the artist’s style evolution, or the societal resonance of a musical movement.

Clarity is paramount in a thesis statement, as it should convey the essay’s main idea in a way that the reader quickly understands. Avoiding vague or overly broad statements enhances clarity and relevance.

The thesis statement serves as the introductory handshake between the writer and the reader, setting the tone for the essay. Depending on the essay’s nature, it can range from analytical and objective to passionate and subjective. For example, if the essay explores the emotional impact of a specific genre, the thesis might set a tone of subjective reflection.

Incorporating Analysis and Critique

An essay about my favorite music requires a nuanced analysis and critique that delves into the intricacies of musical elements, assesses the impact on the audience, and allows the music writer to offer personal insights and interpretations. The music essay writing should evaluate the musical elements such as lyrics, melody, harmony, and rhythm, focusing on their poetic qualities, thematic depth, and storytelling capacity. It should also explore the symbiotic relationship between the music and its audience, exploring how the chosen music resonates with listeners, triggers emotional responses, and influences societal attitudes.

This may involve examining historical reactions, critical reviews, or audience testimonials. When you write an essay about music, you should also offer personal insights and interpretations, allowing the writer to inject their voice into the narrative and share their views of the music’s meaning. This multifaceted approach to analysis and critique enriches the narrative and encourages readers to engage with the music more profoundly, resulting in a lasting impact.

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Music Essay: Topics, How-to Guide, & Examples

Music is a very personal experience; an essay on music aims to describe and analyze it.

How significant is music to our lives? Is it merely background noise for our great deeds? Or is it something that sets the tune of our whole existence? Whatever the answer is, one thing is sure: writing a music essay can be pretty tricky at times. After all, It’s a vast topic with a considerable history behind it.

Here, you will find some tips for going around this trickiness, along with 143 music essay topics for your piece, and 2 music essay examples . But first, we need to decide what exactly we are writing about.

  • 🎵 The Basics
  • 🎼 Music Essay: Writing Steps
  • 🎸 143 Essay Topics
  • 📻 2 Examples

🎵 Music Essay: What Is It about?

The idea of writing anything about music looks daunting at first glance. Thanks to the number of things you seemingly have to perform to write a good piece: using huge music theory words, analyzing all of the musical constituents, understanding the profound meaning behind every melody, and much other complicated stuff.

We’re delighted to inform you that none of that is essential to achieve the summit of a well-written music essay. It’s mostly about what response music invokes in you . Just tell people how it makes you feel. The only thing you need to keep in mind is that music is a very personal experience and talking about the subjective experience is something anyone can do. This can be done in several forms.

Here are some of them:

  • Descriptive music essay . One of the simplest ways to describe something is to, well, describe it . It’s like painting but with a keyboard and a text editor. Here, you can connect to the reader through deep imagery of some musical pieces that you think are worth writing an essay about. Like describing a grimdark future inspired by some depressing lyrics you heard recently. Or you can simply go with picturing a classical music concert essay. Tell everyone how awesome classical music is and why they should spend their next weekend on an orchestra performance.
  • Narrative music essay. Here you want to tell a story and use it to support your point of view. Create a tale about a young musician struggling to attain success to show how harsh and unforgiving the music industry can be. Or do the opposite and tell a story of a great artistic triumph to inspire others to never give up on their dreams. Keep in mind that you are writing a story, and every story has a character. And the characters communicate with each other. So don’t forget to include characters and dialogs.
  • Persuasive music essay. This one is all about making the reader accept your point of view. This type of essay probably would be great for writing a work on the topic of “Why I love Linkin Park” or “My favorite jazz band of all times” since it probably involves a lot of emotional attachment. And emotions are something you definitely want to push in a persuasive music essay. You may also want to include some logical justification and checked facts. Statistics or sources you find reliable also can be cited.
  • Compare & contrast music essay. The name of the genre speaks for itself.If you have difficulties choosing between two things you want to write about, you can compare them . And there are a lot of things to compare in music. Including but not limited to genres, singers, composers, music eras, the list is nearly infinite if you brainstorm hard enough. The structure here is plain and simple: Describe thing 1. Describe thing 2. Compare them.

🎼 Essay on Music: How to Write

Writing a music essay is no different from writing a piece on any other topic in the big picture. You will always need the argumentation, the overall structure, and exciting ideas.

The picture contains the five steps necessary to write a music essay.

But for music, in particular, you will also need to listen and set the listened things out the way that will set the reader on the same wavelength.

Here are some tips to help you with accomplishing that.

Music Essay: 5 Writing Steps

  • Do the analysis. Before your fingers even touch the keyboard, just sitting back and reflecting on the things you’ll write about can be highly beneficial. This step can be applied to any music essay topic. If you make a statement about some lyrics you find beauteous, for instance, you can listen to the song again. And while relistening, try to observe details you haven’t noticed before. How does the melody frame the lyrics? What makes it sound so lyrical? Why does the music sound like it does when certain words are sung? The more questions you make and answer, the better.
  • Thesis – A thesis statement is a part of introduction you will try to prove, disapprove or discuss in the body of your writing.
  • Body – The biggest and the most informative part. In a regular 5-paragraph it consists of 2-3 paragraphs with all argumentation necessary to support your thesis statement.
  • Conclusion – The final part. Nothing new needs to be told here. Just restate your thesis collect your body information in a couple of brief sentences. Plan on the details as well. And try to think of as many as you can. If you’re using a narrative style, what chronological order will there be? What characters will you insert into your narrative? Maybe you should let go of chronology and arrange the story’s events in order of significance? Or in the persuasive piece, you ought to think about the argumentation you’re going to provide. Check the viability of your sources and make sure the statistics you cite are not outdated. Do your research, simply put.
  • Make a strong thesis statement. The thesis is the essential part of your essay. It’s not an argument, and thus you shouldn’t be trying to impose your point of view right from the get-go. If your thesis statement goes, “Rock music is undoubtedly the best genre out there with no considerable competition and here’s why.” you probably want to consider the possibility of a counterargument to your point. “The energy rock music gives and the majestic mood it can get you into makes it one of the best genres presented in today’s music industry” would be a better choice. If you have any difficulties formulating your thesis statement, you might want to use our free thesis-generating tool . Note that it is able to make various theses depending on the essay type.
  • Don’t be scared of big music words. While it’s not obligatory to know every term out there, some of them can help express seemingly complicated ideas in a laconic way. It’s not wrong to say that you find the speed and rhythm of the music to be just suitable for the time it takes. But you can also phrase it into “I like the tempo” and be done with it. Although tempo might not be the most complex music word, it shows the point.
  • Go sentimental. Music in itself is one enormous sentiment. Therefore, if you think you’re being too sensual with your essay, you’re probably not. Use metaphorical language and compare your favorite song to a trip to the stars. Or express your feeling towards a band you adore by putting it on par with antique gods. There’re no limits to your feelings, so don’t be scared to exceed them.

🎸 143 Music Essay Topics

If the topic of your work is not assigned, it can be challenging to either come up with one or choose one of the many ideas you have. Here are some possible options for you to go with:

  • The best ways to enjoy your favorite band’s new album.
  • Classical music as a way of energy for the whole day.
  • What Is Hip-Hop Subculture?
  • Rap music and its characteristics.
  • What makes music challenging to listen to?
  • Social Commentary in Pop Music Industry.
  • How does low-fi music chill you out.
  • A perfect playlist for working out.
  • Music Paper: The Type of Music Jazz.
  • Motivational music and its effect on you.
  • Music Education: The Descriptive Research Methods.
  • Is there such thing as “Cooking music”?
  • Effects of Music in Advertising.
  • Choosing a song for your alarm clock.
  • Social Use of Music in Contemporary American Society.
  • Can your music taste define your character?
  • Woodstock The Music Event and Festival.
  • What is the best music to relieve your stress?
  • Ethnomusicology in Analyzing Society’ Music.
  • What is “Alternative” music?
  • How can jazz music make you feel?
  • Dance style: Capoeira.
  • Why does music make us dance?
  • The National Centre of Popular Music.
  • Good and bad music. How to define?
  • Hip-hop in Japan and cultural globalization.
  • Defining features of The Beatles music.
  • Popular music in the modern culture.
  • What were the first rappers in history, and how were they different?
  • Chamber Music in the Early Twentieth Century.
  • What meaning can a song without lyrics have?
  • The effect of music on culture.
  • The future of electronic music.
  • Choir Director & Participants in Music Making.
  • Live music and the wonders it can do.
  • Popular music in America.
  • The mix of traditional and modern music and its specifics.
  • Folk Music: Evolution of the Term and Scholars’ Works.
  • How important is appearance for a musician?
  • Feminism in the hip-hop culture.
  • Musical instruments and the mood they bring.
  • Sound analysis and aural experiences from music.
  • Defining qualities of Elvis Pressley’s music.
  • The Use of Violin in the Baroque Concerto.
  • Ambient music is not a background.
  • Descriptive Qualitative Research in Music Education.
  • My first time seeing an orchestra concert.
  • Hip-Hop Culture: What Philosophy to Choose?
  • The struggles of an amateur musician in modern days.
  • Teachers Pursuing a Master’s Degree in Music Education.
  • The story of Queen’s success.
  • Use of Music in Classrooms of in-Service Teachers.
  • The day I fell in love with underground music.
  • The first date and how the choice of music can affect it.
  • The Effects of Hip-Hop, Rap Music on Young Women in Academia.
  • My music taste progression.
  • When did the music I love become old?
  • Presentation for the Russian Musical Society.
  • The two-faced reality of the music industry.
  • Frank Zappa: composer & social critic.
  • Why do I feel threatened at a punk-rock concert?
  • The great triumph of 80’s rock music.
  • E-concert report: Pieces by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky.
  • The role of music in fighting prejudice.
  • The origins of hip-hop culture.
  • The most fantastic song I’ve ever heard.
  • The magic of Christmas music.
  • The Beatles: Eight Days a Week – the touring years.
  • The origin story of Coldplay.
  • My appreciation of heavy-metal bands.
  • History of jazz music.
  • Music effects on unborn children.
  • American Popular Music and Its Styles.
  • The effectiveness of music therapy.
  • Hip-Hop and Theatre, Hip-Hop in Theatre or Hip-Hop Theatre.
  • Heavy music and aggressive behavior.
  • Teaching and Learning Music Technologically.
  • Rap music and its influence on crime rates.
  • Minimalism in Music and Its Development.
  • The coexistence of traditional and modern music.
  • How effective is music in pushing propaganda?
  • Popular Music and Its Impact on the Economy and Politics.
  • The importance of a national anthem.
  • The Illegal Downloading of Music.
  • The most ear-pleasing instrument.
  • Music industry: the downfall caused by technology.
  • The psychological and physiological impact of music.
  • The problems of music piracy.
  • DMCA pros and cons.
  • Personality traits and musical elements preferences.
  • The music and the freedom of speech.
  • Is the music industry accessible?
  • Music, media and culture influence on behavior.
  • Can drugs help you to write lyrics?
  • Manufactured bands. Good or bad?
  • African music’s contribution to contemporary genres.
  • Why is pop music popular?
  • Visual Music: The Concept of ‘Visual Music’ and Historical Excurse.
  • Should we listen to less music?
  • Do physical copies of music still make sense?
  • Heavy metal music gender trends.
  • The importance of background music in movies?
  • The world without music. Better or worse?
  • Studying Music Evolution.
  • The extreme difference between jazz and acid jazz.
  • Historic Violin Pedagogical Treatises and Teaching.
  • How different can the tastes of people from various countries be?
  • Sociology of Music: What Music Means in Our Life.
  • Comparing rap: old vs. new.
  • Your today’s music taste. Better or worse?
  • The History and Concept of Rock Music.
  • Professional and amateur music.
  • Presentation on Articulation Related to the Violin.
  • The idea of depression in different songs.
  • Gender and Sexuality in Popular Media.
  • The 80s and 2000’s rock: compare and contrast.
  • Debussy’s String Quartet and Influence on Symphonic Music.
  • Office with background music vs. office without it.
  • Performing Forces Related to Violin in the 19th Century.
  • The difference between rap and hip-hop.
  • Music Education Pre-Service and Beginning Teachers’ Learning.
  • The visions of the future in various music genres.
  • Philosophy Scenario in Music Education.
  • Listening to music or listening to lyrics?
  • Debussy’s String Quartet and His Influence on Symphonic Music.
  • Does it matter to listen to music outdoor or indoors?
  • French Romanticism Features in Camille Saint-Saens’s Music.
  • Western and eastern traditional music.
  • History of Community Jazz Bands in Floridoniaville City.
  • Baroque and renaissance classical music comparison.
  • Folk Music Definition and Development.
  • The usage of acoustic guitar in happy and depressive songs.
  • The Mind of Music: Psychology of Musicians.
  • Calm or energetic music for driving. What’s better?
  • Rave parties vs. country festivals.
  • Is there a difference in men’s and women’s music tastes?
  • The Violin Trio Music in the Early Twentieth Century: Specific Features of Aram Khachaturian’s and Bela Bartok’s Contrast.
  • How do your high school and college music differ? And why?
  • Mozart’s Third Violin Concert Performance Skills.
  • Music therapy. Active or receptive?
  • Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto in D Major: A Western Form of the Russian Music.
  • Importance of a Choir Director in Music Making.

Haven’t found anything suitable in the lists above? Feel free to use our essay topic generator for more ideas.

📻 Music Essay Examples

Here we will look at two simple examples of a written music essay with a brief parsing of principal components for each.

Classical Music Concert Essay

If we’re going to write something about a classical concert, the narrative essay would be one of the best ways to do that. Remember that introduction and thesis are in the same paragraph. Pay attention to the absence of thesis. It’s a common thing in a narrative style essay.

Since the beginning of my conscious life, I have been highly skeptical about classical music. I saw nothing appealing and worth paying attention to in it. The melody seemed tedious, and the whole genre appeared to me as arrogant snobbish pedant music for people of the exact nature.
Although the concert hall was not the thing to subvert my expectations, it looked just what your imagination demonstrates to you after hearing “A classical music concert hall” with a formidable orchestra in between.   My friend of 5 years, on the other hand, was quite a reason for a change in my perception of the genre. He was the sole reason for me to be there in the first place. And given how grounded and straightforward he always was, his classical music enthusiasm was a surprising discovery.   But what completely devastated my skepticism was the music itself. Thanks to my friend, I listened to it with no prejudice in my heart for the first time. And it sounded magnificent. It was an hour and a half long emotional adventure with emotions coming in all colors.
This experience has taught me never to let my poor knowledge of any music genre dictate my music preferences. Now I always experience things first and judge them after. Never the other way around.

Essay on Music Therapy

Going with a persuasive style for this topic might be a decent idea. Many people are doubtful about music being somehow related to health, and an essay on music therapy is a proper tool to convince them.

People have always tried to find a solution to health. And while our physical condition is well researched, our psychological state still leaves a lot of questions unanswered. For instance, the question of music somehow influencing our mental health and body.
And the answer to this matter is music therapy that has been shown to reduce stress levels, strengthen memory, and even fight mental disorders.
The fact that music bears at least some amount of impact on people has been scientifically proven on countless occasions. But I doubt you need scientific work to realize that the sound of your alarm clock in the middle of the day will cause some amount of anxiety. Hearing a motivational piece while jogging, on the other hand, will make sure you will not fall off the distance early due to poor motivation. A similar principle applies to us when it comes down to music therapy. It operates music to either soften the negative emotions or enhance the positive ones. Research suggests that music can reduce stress levels, strengthen your memory and even help with depression. Furthermore, the therapy serves well in fighting even severe medical disorders like autism or aphasia. To all others, music therapy does not limit itself to listening to music. It also gives a chance to create it. Active music therapy is widely and effectively used when treating motor or mental disorders among children helping them to overcome their burden in adolescence.
In conclusion, it is fair to mention that music therapy is not pseudoscientific nonsense but an effective tool in curing various illnesses. And while it is not a panacea, it can certainly be a great support to both your body and mind.

Overall, you need to bear in mind that a music essay is no different from any other type. Make sure to keep the structure, logic, and coherence together, and you’ll be good to go. Make sure to let us know if the article was any use for you, good luck with your assignment, and thank you for your time!

🔗 References

  • Writing about Music: A Guide to Writing | Harvard College
  • 6 Tips for Writing About Music – Writer’s Digest
  • Music – UNC Writing Center
  • The music essay – The Guardian
  • Write Your Essay | UNSW Current Students
  • How to Write an Essay

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  • Knowledge Base
  • How to Write a Thesis Statement | 4 Steps & Examples

How to Write a Thesis Statement | 4 Steps & Examples

Published on January 11, 2019 by Shona McCombes . Revised on August 15, 2023 by Eoghan Ryan.

A thesis statement is a sentence that sums up the central point of your paper or essay . It usually comes near the end of your introduction .

Your thesis will look a bit different depending on the type of essay you’re writing. But the thesis statement should always clearly state the main idea you want to get across. Everything else in your essay should relate back to this idea.

You can write your thesis statement by following four simple steps:

  • Start with a question
  • Write your initial answer
  • Develop your answer
  • Refine your thesis statement

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Table of contents

What is a thesis statement, placement of the thesis statement, step 1: start with a question, step 2: write your initial answer, step 3: develop your answer, step 4: refine your thesis statement, types of thesis statements, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about thesis statements.

A thesis statement summarizes the central points of your essay. It is a signpost telling the reader what the essay will argue and why.

The best thesis statements are:

  • Concise: A good thesis statement is short and sweet—don’t use more words than necessary. State your point clearly and directly in one or two sentences.
  • Contentious: Your thesis shouldn’t be a simple statement of fact that everyone already knows. A good thesis statement is a claim that requires further evidence or analysis to back it up.
  • Coherent: Everything mentioned in your thesis statement must be supported and explained in the rest of your paper.

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The thesis statement generally appears at the end of your essay introduction or research paper introduction .

The spread of the internet has had a world-changing effect, not least on the world of education. The use of the internet in academic contexts and among young people more generally is hotly debated. For many who did not grow up with this technology, its effects seem alarming and potentially harmful. This concern, while understandable, is misguided. The negatives of internet use are outweighed by its many benefits for education: the internet facilitates easier access to information, exposure to different perspectives, and a flexible learning environment for both students and teachers.

You should come up with an initial thesis, sometimes called a working thesis , early in the writing process . As soon as you’ve decided on your essay topic , you need to work out what you want to say about it—a clear thesis will give your essay direction and structure.

You might already have a question in your assignment, but if not, try to come up with your own. What would you like to find out or decide about your topic?

For example, you might ask:

After some initial research, you can formulate a tentative answer to this question. At this stage it can be simple, and it should guide the research process and writing process .

Now you need to consider why this is your answer and how you will convince your reader to agree with you. As you read more about your topic and begin writing, your answer should get more detailed.

In your essay about the internet and education, the thesis states your position and sketches out the key arguments you’ll use to support it.

The negatives of internet use are outweighed by its many benefits for education because it facilitates easier access to information.

In your essay about braille, the thesis statement summarizes the key historical development that you’ll explain.

The invention of braille in the 19th century transformed the lives of blind people, allowing them to participate more actively in public life.

A strong thesis statement should tell the reader:

  • Why you hold this position
  • What they’ll learn from your essay
  • The key points of your argument or narrative

The final thesis statement doesn’t just state your position, but summarizes your overall argument or the entire topic you’re going to explain. To strengthen a weak thesis statement, it can help to consider the broader context of your topic.

These examples are more specific and show that you’ll explore your topic in depth.

Your thesis statement should match the goals of your essay, which vary depending on the type of essay you’re writing:

  • In an argumentative essay , your thesis statement should take a strong position. Your aim in the essay is to convince your reader of this thesis based on evidence and logical reasoning.
  • In an expository essay , you’ll aim to explain the facts of a topic or process. Your thesis statement doesn’t have to include a strong opinion in this case, but it should clearly state the central point you want to make, and mention the key elements you’ll explain.

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A thesis statement is a sentence that sums up the central point of your paper or essay . Everything else you write should relate to this key idea.

The thesis statement is essential in any academic essay or research paper for two main reasons:

  • It gives your writing direction and focus.
  • It gives the reader a concise summary of your main point.

Without a clear thesis statement, an essay can end up rambling and unfocused, leaving your reader unsure of exactly what you want to say.

Follow these four steps to come up with a thesis statement :

  • Ask a question about your topic .
  • Write your initial answer.
  • Develop your answer by including reasons.
  • Refine your answer, adding more detail and nuance.

The thesis statement should be placed at the end of your essay introduction .

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How to Write a Music Essay with Examples

thesis statement about music

Writing an essay about music encourages you to think about how music influences emotions and behavior. Did you know that certain types of music can alter brain activity, influence memory, or even change how we perceive time? This kind of analysis can reveal insights that go unnoticed in everyday listening.

In this article, our custom essay writing service will walk you through the process of crafting an exceptional music essay. We've curated a list of thought-provoking topics to spark your inspiration. And to give you a clearer picture of what a stellar music essay looks like, we'll share a sample music paper.

What is Music Essay

A music essay goes beyond just describing your favorite songs or artists. It can merge analysis with personal reflection, allowing you to connect abstract musical concepts to real-world effects.

What makes an essay on music unique is its ability to dissect not just the sound but the meaning and context behind it. For instance, when analyzing a piece of classical music, you might consider how its composition reflects the political climate of the time or how it challenges traditional structures in music theory. If you're writing about a modern genre like hip-hop, you might explore its roots in social movements and how it has evolved as a voice for marginalized communities.

Related : Check our special guide on what is research essay .

Special Features of Writing About Music

Writing about music doesn't require you to be an expert in this field. The key is to listen attentively, reflect on what you hear, and share your unique insights. Like any effective paper, a strong music essay requires a clear thesis, logical structure, well-supported arguments, and polished writing. What makes essays about music distinct is the blend of specific musical analysis with imaginative language that brings the music to life.

Technical vs. Everyday Language

While technical terms can be useful for describing intricate details, they aren't always necessary. If you're not deeply familiar with musical terminology or if you're writing for a broad audience, focus on describing the music in your own words. The aim is to communicate your ideas clearly and concisely without overwhelming your readers with complex jargon.

For example, in discussing Debussy's Clair de Lune , you might say: "The melody flows gently, like moonlight shimmering on a calm lake. It's serene, yet there's a quiet intensity beneath the surface." Notice how this description uses everyday language to convey the piece's emotional atmosphere.

Metaphors can be especially powerful in illustrating the emotional impact of music. For instance, you might describe a jazz improvisation as "a spontaneous conversation between old friends, full of unexpected turns and familiar comfort." This metaphor helps readers visualize the music and grasp its underlying mood.

Well-chosen metaphors not only enhance your argument but also make your writing more engaging. However, it's important to ensure your metaphors are precise and relevant to the music you're describing. Always connect them to specific musical elements so that your readers can clearly understand your interpretation.

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How to Write a Music Essay in 7 Steps

Now, follow these 7 easy steps to understand how to write an essay about music. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to create an engaging and insightful paper.

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How to Write a Music Essay in 7 Steps

1. Listen and Note Initial Impressions

The first step in writing a music essay is to listen to the piece multiple times. Pay close attention to the music, noting your immediate feelings and reactions. What emotions do you experience? Are there any specific moments that stand out?

Here are some questions to consider:

  • How does the music make you feel? Are there moments of joy, sadness, anger, or peace?
  • What instruments are being used? How do their sounds contribute to the overall atmosphere?
  • Is there a strong melody or rhythm? How do these elements shape the piece?
  • Are there any recurring motifs or themes? What do they symbolize?

These observations will help you identify the key elements of the music and develop a deeper understanding of its meaning.

2. Analyze the Musical Elements

Once you've noted your initial impressions, analyze the various musical elements that contribute to its overall effect. Instead of simply listing the elements, try to understand how these elements work together to create a cohesive composition. For example:

  • Melody and Harmony: How does the melody interact with the harmony? Does the melody follow the harmonic progression, or does it create tension and resolution?
  • Rhythm and Timbre: How does the rhythm influence the timbre of the instruments? Do certain instruments accentuate the rhythmic patterns or create a sense of counterpoint?
  • Form and Structure: How is the piece organized? Are there any recurring sections or themes? How does the form contribute to the overall narrative or meaning of the music?

3. Organize Observations Clearly

Afterward, organize your observations in a way that makes your essay easy to follow. Start by grouping similar ideas together. For instance, if you notice patterns in rhythm, melody, or instrumentation, keep those observations together in your essay.

Next, decide on the order in which you want to present these points. A logical progression usually works best—move from broader observations to more specific details. This structure guides your reader smoothly through your analysis, making it easier for them to understand your perspective.

Lastly, make sure each section of your essay transitions well into the next. Use connecting phrases or sentences to link your ideas so the essay reads like a continuous narrative rather than a series of disjointed points.

4. Develop a Strong Thesis

To develop a strong thesis, start by reflecting on your observations and analysis. What is the key insight or argument you want to convey?

Your thesis should be specific and debatable, not just a statement of fact. For example, instead of saying, "The music uses interesting rhythms," try something more pointed like, "The unconventional rhythmic patterns in this composition challenge traditional notions of time signature, creating a unique auditory experience that reflects the artist's innovative approach."

Make sure your thesis is focused and manageable. Throughout your essay, continually refer back to this thesis to ensure your analysis remains relevant and cohesive.

5. Add Historical Context

To add historical context, start by researching the time period and cultural background in which the music was created. Consider factors like the social, political, and musical trends of the time.

For example, if you're writing about a jazz piece from the 1920s, mention the impact of the Jazz Age on the music's style and composition. How did historical events or cultural shifts influence the artist's work?

Incorporate this context into your essay to show how the music fits into a larger narrative. Explain how historical events or cultural movements shaped the music and how it, in turn, reflects or challenges those influences.

6. Link Music to Broader Themes

Connecting the music to broader themes helps to show its relevance and significance beyond its immediate context. To do this, identify the larger ideas or issues that the music touches on. For instance, if the piece reflects themes of rebellion or innovation, explain how these themes relate to broader cultural or societal movements.

Start by examining how the music aligns with or challenges prevailing trends, beliefs, or experiences of its time. For example, if a piece explores themes of personal struggle, link it to universal experiences or social issues, such as mental health or resilience.

Additionally, consider how the music fits into larger artistic or cultural movements. Does it reflect or influence trends in its genre, or does it contribute to a broader dialogue about art and society?

7. Synthesize Into a Cohesive Narrative

To synthesize your analysis into a cohesive narrative, revisit your main points and ensure they align with your thesis.

Structure your essay so that each section flows logically into the next. Begin with an introduction that outlines your thesis and the main points you will cover. Follow this with a body where you present your observations and analysis, organized by theme or aspect of the music. Ensure each paragraph transitions smoothly to the next, maintaining a clear connection to your central argument.

In your conclusion, summarize how your analysis supports your thesis and highlight the broader significance of the music. Reinforce the key themes and insights you've discussed, showing how they come together to form a complete picture.

Music Essay Topics

When choosing a topic for your essay, consider your interests and the specific piece of music you want to analyze. Here are 15 potential music topics to write about:

  • What is the relationship between musical form and narrative structure in Beethoven's symphonies?
  • Discuss how music contributes to the storytelling and emotional impact of films or television shows.
  • How opera reflects socio-political issues of its time.
  • The Beatles' Influence on Rock Music: A look at their lasting impact.
  • How does the concept of "syncopation" contribute to the rhythmic complexity of jazz music?
  • What makes a song a classic?
  • Discuss the issues surrounding music copyright and the fair use of copyrighted material.
  • How has music been used to represent and challenge national identity in post-colonial contexts?
  • What is the role of nostalgia in our appreciation of music, and how does it differ across cultures?
  • The use of classical music in 20th-century film scores
  • How does Mozart's use of coloratura singing enhance the dramatic impact of his operatic characters?
  • Examine the connections between music and literary works, such as novels, poetry, or plays.
  • Trace the development of rock over time.
  • How does music help us cope with grief and loss, and what are the psychological mechanisms involved?
  • Speculate on the future of the music industry and the potential impact of emerging technologies.

Got your essay topic ready? Don't wait around—just click ' write my paper ' and let the experts handle it!

Music Essay Examples

Here are the samples that illustrate writing about music examples and bring our earlier tips to life. Crafted by our thesis writing service , they show you how to explore music, develop your arguments, and spotlight key details effectively.

The Bottom Line

Writing an essay about music can be both fun and rewarding. With so many topics to explore, just follow our guide to create a standout essay every time. Be adventurous with your topic, keep the writing process straightforward, and stick to academic standards. Use our music essay samples as a model to craft your own polished paper.

Remember, if you're feeling stuck or short on time, our expert writers are here to help. Simply visit our website, submit a ' write my research paper' request, and get a custom-written essay with just a click!

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Though music essay writing is not the hardest job on the planet, there are still some questions that often pop up. Now that you have a writing guide and a list of essay topics about music, it's time to address the remaining inquiries. Keep reading to find the answers to the frequently asked questions. 

What is Music Essay?

How to start an essay on music, how does music affect your mood essay.

Adam Jason

is an expert in nursing and healthcare, with a strong background in history, law, and literature. Holding advanced degrees in nursing and public health, his analytical approach and comprehensive knowledge help students navigate complex topics. On EssayPro blog, Adam provides insightful articles on everything from historical analysis to the intricacies of healthcare policies. In his downtime, he enjoys historical documentaries and volunteering at local clinics.

thesis statement about music

  • Updated writing steps, essay topics and FAQs
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Writing about Music: A Guide to Writing in A & I 24 . (n.d.). https://writingproject.fas.harvard.edu/files/hwp/files/ai_24_guide_to_print.pdf

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Postgraduate Research in Music: A Step-by-Step Guide to Writing a Thesis

Postgraduate Research in Music: A Step-by-Step Guide to Writing a Thesis

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Postgraduate Research in Music: A Step-by-Step Guide to Writing a Thesis is an essential text for music students who are undertaking postgraduate research. Unique in its approach and scope, this is a “how to” book, a practical guide that sets out, step-by-step, how to write a thesis. It discusses all key aspects of the research process in the order in which they are encountered, from the initial stages of a research project to completion of a thesis. It also offers a music-specific focus, with explanations and examples that are immediately relevant for all music research and which take into account the special characteristics of music as a discipline. Lastly, it provides a teaching framework for lecturers. All key concepts are illustrated with music-relevant examples. Exercises, and in some chapters class seminar topics as well, are included to reinforce the concepts being discussed. Reading lists are appended at the end of most chapters, enabling students to explore topics in greater depth. Valuable supplementary information, such as referencing examples, is provided in the appendices. Postgraduate Research in Music is based on the premise that there are certain principles that underpin good scholarship, regardless of the area in which the research is conducted. In distilling and discussing these principles, this book speaks to all scholars working within the discipline of music.

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Thesis statement for an argumentative essay about music

Lydia 6 / 10   Jan 11, 2010   #2 In other to have a good thesis statement, you need some attitude in it to make it intriguing or to attract the reader's attention.

OP Rolyet270 1 / 4   Jan 11, 2010   #3 Thank you! This really helps me.

OP Rolyet270 1 / 4   Jan 15, 2010   #4 My thesis changed: Music is a very important part or our lives and without it we would not be as advanced as we are today. How is this??

EF_Kevin 8 / 13253   Jan 17, 2010   #5 Music is a very important part or our lives and without it we would not be as advanced as we are today. The word very is always weak, because you only have to use it when you lack a way of DEMONSTRATING the extensiveness of whatever very is modifying. Also, very is abstract and inexact. A thesis should be specific and "arguable." What does it mean for a thesis to be arguable? Well, I don't think anyone would argue with this thesis you have here. However, if you make an argument that music is more important to society's development than language, that is something people might argue against! You can argue that language is a form of music, and that music is therefore more fundamental and significant. That sort of controversial approach makes a good thesis. Argue something people can disagree with. :-)

brittdeno 1 / 6   Jan 17, 2010   #6 Good points, Kevin! Just some fodder to think about -- when I was in college, I wrote a paper for my linguistic anthropology class about the evolution of language. I started out by talking about singing/music: how it is universal to every society, how singing may have helped lay the basis for the evolution of our vocal chords so we can talk, how it is used to bring people together for community and to promote altruistic behavior (think about singing in churches!). Taylor, you're on the right path by thinking about music and society; brainstorm ways music may have shaped society as we know it! I always liked thinking of my thesis paragraphs as a funnel, starting out broadly and then narrowing down to a specific, arguable thesis. This topic is perfect for that since music IS such a universal constant. Best of luck!

EF_Kevin 8 / 13253   Jan 21, 2010   #7 That's a great discussion, Britt. It is interesting that good speakers know how to keep a melodious quality to their voices; this is the sort of thing that makes you think again about the definition of music. That explanation for thesis statements is great, too. Related: is this thesis statement about music good? Music is everywhere, we listen to music throughout our lives, there are many type of music, such as rock & roll, classical, country, marching band and operas. or should i write more? my essay is about classifaction/divide essay This thesis statement is probably a bit too narrow. As it is, I cannot tell what it is going to be about, as all you have provided is a broad definition. As this is, it's not really a thesis statement but rather an opening sentence, a "hook" to get readers interested. Your thesis should start out broad and then narrow down to the exact statement near the end, much like a funnel. You should include something about classification and division in the essay, and a great amount of detail as to what you will be classifying or dividing. I hope this helps. Refer to: https://essayforum.com/graduate/good-entrance-application-long-792/

Tong - / 3   Jan 22, 2010   #8 My thesis changed: Music is a very important part or our lives and without it we would not be as advanced as we are today. How is this?? It is still significantly generalization as the audience would be in doubt how important this part (music) is, then why without it we would not be as advanced as we are today? this thesis will raise at least two subtopics you are going to discuss in the body: 1) the importance of music 2) is it definitely necessary for us to be advanced with music? These two subtopics contain lots of arguments you are going to settle in the body. At least, you should narrow down them. My suggestion is: Music is one of many important parts of our lives because it can be an approach not only to reduce each of our mental tension but also to inspire our feelings in artistic sense. Then, there are only two subtopics to develop into two paragraphs in the body: 1) music is an approach to reduce people's mental tension 2) music inspires people's feelings in artistic sense You can use those ideas from your beginning brainstorming as supporting ideas for each subtopics. Hope this from mine is helpful. Nice weekend!

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thesis statement about music

267 Music Essay Topics + Writing Guide [2024 Update]

Your mood leaves a lot to be desired. Everything around you is getting on your nerves. But still, there’s one thing that may save you: music. Just think of all the times you turned on your favorite song, and it lifted your spirits!

So, why not write about it in a music essay? In this article, you’ll find all the information necessary for this type of assignment:

  • 267 brilliant music essay topics,
  • a sample paper,
  • a step-by-step guide and writing tips.

And don’t forget to bookmark  custom-writing.org  where you can find helpful essay tips in articles like this one.

🔝 Music Essay Topics: Top 10

  • 🎵 Music Essay Definition
  • 🎼 Essay Topics
  • ✍️ How to Write
  • 📑 Essay Sample

🔗 References

  • Compare different recording formats.
  • The purpose of music.
  • Ternary and rondo: compare and contrast.
  • Music as a lifestyle.
  • The benefits of singing.
  • Ethnomusicology as a career.
  • Evolution of the radio.
  • The importance of school musicals.
  • Music as a tool for meditation.
  • Music in sports.

🎵 Essays about Music: What Are They?

A music essay describes or analyzes a piece of music, its context, or one’s personal attitude towards it. This type of assignment requires a compelling primary argument and a clear structure.

To write well about music, you don’t have to be a professional musician. All you need is to be able to listen, understand, and evaluate it. You should also provide your interpretation and opinion on it.

Writing about Music: Assignment Types

An essay on music is a popular assignment in high school and college. However, many students find it hard to describe sounds in a written form. In this article, we will give you some tips on writing about music.

Here are the typical tasks that you might receive:

  • Concert report. It requires describing the music you’ve heard using as many details and terms as you can.
  • Historical analysis of a piece. Your aim is to describe the historical context of a piece or its relation to the historical setting. For this type of assignment, you may need to do some research.
  • Song analysis. In this type of essay, you explore song lyrics’ meaning and show how they work together with the melody.
  • Performance or media comparison. Here you need to compare several interpretations or performances of one piece of music.

The picture shows different tasks related to writing about music.

All of these assignments require a different approach and topic. You will find topics for these types of tasks below.

How to Choose a Music Essay Topic

First things first, you need to find a suitable music essay topic. To accomplish this task, you might want to take the following steps:

  • Analyze your relationship with music . What role does it play in your life? Your topic choice will be different if you are a musician or merely a listener.
  • Think about how music influences your everyday life . For instance, you can study how listening to music affects our mental health. Impressing your readers with some historical facts from the world of music is also a great idea.
  • Try reflecting on the role of different music genres in your life . Whether you prefer rap or classical music, exploring a genre is an excellent topic idea. Topics related to musical instruments are also worth attention.
  • Narrow your topic down. Otherwise, it will be too difficult to focus your essay on just one idea.

🎼 Music Essay Topics List

The first thing you need to do is to choose your topic. We have prepared a variety of music topics perfect for research papers and short essays. You can also use them for speeches or college application essays.

Argumentative Essay about Music: Topics & Ideas

Argumentative essays about music are usually concerned with a specific music-related issue you choose to address. Just like with any other argumentative essay, you should present both sides of the topic. Also, reliable facts are a must for this type of essay.

  • The influence of modern technologies on the music industry. Technologies allow artists to create and promote their songs independently. Because of this, record labels are less critical to musicians than before. However, the emergence of new technologies also gave rise to piracy. Do the positives outweigh the negatives?
  • What’s the effect of pop music on the modern generation? Today’s pop songs are usually commercial. Because of this, some people say that pop has ruined the current generations’ perception of music. Others argue that contemporary pop music expanded the possibilities of the genre.
  • Rock music makes people more aggressive. Some consider rock music merely an arrangement of aggressive tunes that foster violence. On the counter side, science has proven that people who prefer rock to other genres are calmer and more concentrated. Which position do you agree with?
  • Can people with hearing impairments become famous musicians? Many believe that access to fame and fortune is limited for disabled people. The deaf may seem especially unsuited for the music business. Yet, the examples of Beethoven, Neil Young, and Chris Martin show that hearing problems don’t have to be an issue.
  • Will streaming completely substitute physical copies? Digitalization is on its way to replacing LPs and CDs. For most people, it’s simply more convenient. But their opponents claim that an MP3 file can never sound as good as a physical copy.
  • Some music genres can be a catalyst for violence. While their beats may be calm, hip-hop and rap’s lyrics are often aggressive and brutal. Does it have adverse effects on a listener?
  • Can a person become addicted to music?
  • Censorship on the radio: why stations shouldn’t bleep out obscenities.
  • Is mandatory musical education in high schools practical?
  • The impact of Mozart’s music on toddlers.
  • Should a musician’s personal life affect people’s perception of their art?
  • How susceptible are teenagers to political messages in songs?
  • Music influences one’s mental and physical capabilities.
  • Are children who listen to music more intelligent than others?
  • Music genres are inherently dependent on musical instruments.
  • Is music as an art form more popular than cinema?
  • Debate whether rap musicians promote a frivolous and careless lifestyle .
  • Many musicians became famous only because they’ve had connections.
  • Music festivals are the best form of entertainment.
  • Does music always sound better live than on records?
  • Is classical music better than modern genres?
  • Is it justified that some religions view music as a sin?
  • Typically, music defines a culture and its traditions: true or false?
  • Rap music has a strong connection to rebellious movements.
  • Jamaican music’s link to the stoner lifestyle is unjustified.
  • Synesthesia: how is music related to visuals?

Opinion on Music: Essay Topics

Opinion essays about music might seem similar to the argumentative type. Here, you are expected to write your personal opinion on a topic. Naturally, you can have many opinions on musical topics. Why not broadcast them? Keep in mind that you also need to provide reasons for your point of view.

  • Music therapy can help people with mental illnesses. It’s a well-known fact that music affects the human brain. This ability makes it perfect for treating mental health problems. On the one hand, psychologists established that listening to classical music increases one’s cognitive capacity. On the other hand, listening to heavy rock impacts responsiveness.
  • The questionable treatment of women in the music industry . While it may seem that both sexes are treated equally, women still earn much less than they deserve. Moreover, the extreme sexualization of girls persists as one of the most pressing problems in the industry.
  • Which musician or band impacted your worldview? Discuss what makes your favorite artist special. Consider analyzing their lyrics, genre, and evolution. If you want to, add a review of one of their albums.
  • What are the challenges of being an independent artist? Typically, independent artists deal with all the financial, promotional, and distributional affairs by themselves. In the increasingly complex music business, this is not an easy task.
  • Is social media efficient for promotion? Almost every modern artist uses social media to promote their albums or songs. Users often check their networks for updates, which increases the musician’s visibility. But do such methods help in the long run?
  • Passion is the essential personal quality for every musician. If an artist is not eager to continually produce high-quality output, they’re unlikely to succeed. However, qualities such as responsibility, honesty, hard work, and creativity are also vital.
  • Is music good for stress relief?
  • How does music connect people ?
  • Analyze qualities that good musicians shouldn’t have.
  • Who are the most excellent musicians in the country genre?
  • Is it possible to live without interacting with music?
  • Choose three successful rappers and analyze their influence.
  • How can a musician become famous without having money or connections?
  • What are the difficulties of being in a band?
  • Who impacted the development of indie music the most?
  • Is pop music losing its popularity? If so, why?
  • Three factors that affected your choice of a favorite genre.
  • Which artists are the most prominent in power metal?
  • Which record label is the most influential now?
  • Can Justin Bieber’s songs be considered legendary?
  • Did Kanye West introduce a new kind of rap?
  • Which rock bands lost their fame because of a scandal ? How did it happen?
  • Discuss Dire Straits’ impact on music history .
  • Who are currently the most successful women pop singers ?
  • Why are some music genres more popular than others?
  • What does success in the music world depend on?

Topics for a Persuasive Essay about Music

Is there anything music-related you want to convince people of? A persuasive paper is your chance. Carefully craft your arguments to show your readers you’ve always been right about the beauty of cowbells. If it’s not your jam, consider these essay topics about music:

  • A seven-string guitar is superior to a six-string one. The additional string gives more room for creativity. It might be challenging to master, but in the end, the music has a fuller sound . Do you think it’s worth the effort?
  • The lyrics don’t matter as long as the melody is good. It’s possible to like songs from different countries, even if the listener doesn’t understand the language. The singing is simply part of the composition. Does this mean that what the vocalist says is unimportant?

The picture shows the information about the oldest surviving musical composition.

  • Most people living in big cities neglect country music. People from urban areas tend to think that country music is tasteless. For them, its tunes and lyrics sound too simple. Does the strong association with cowboys, farms, and long roads simply not appeal to the city lifestyle?
  • Should rap music be performed only by black people? The genre hosts a large portion of African American artists. Not only that, but black rappers are widely considered the best of their craft. Do white artists do the genre justice?
  • Music that artists make merely to get money is soulless. Passion is a critical factor for every musician. If money is the primary driver for creating a song, the result is inevitably flawed. Do you agree?
  • Pop music is undergoing a transformation. Listeners acknowledge pop as the primary genre of contemporary music. Yet, new musical instruments are changing the game. Even the lyrics touch on more serious topics than before.
  • Indie is the new pop. Indie music is a relatively novel genre. Still, it continues to gain popularity. The light-hearted tunes paired with existential lyrics have captured the audience’s hearts. Is it possible to envision the future of music without bands such as Coldplay, The 1975, and the Arctic Monkeys?
  • The meaning of freedom for jazz as a musical genre.
  • Punk rock has recently witnessed a renaissance.
  • Exposing plants to classical music makes them grow faster.
  • Classical music: intellectually stimulating or relaxing ?
  • Is it justified that some countries legally prohibit artists from performing?
  • Is it easier for children to learn with music?
  • Can a person ever become a great artist without a natural talent ?
  • Should workplaces allow their employees to listen to background music?
  • Jimi Hendrix’s guitar skills are still unmatched.
  • The impact of pop music on European culture and trends.
  • Kurt Cobain’s death should have been a wake-up call for the music industry .
  • Why is music beneficial to society?
  • Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan’s legacy can be felt even today.
  • Nintendocore is a legitimate genre that the industry should take more seriously.
  • Should you listen to a bands’ music even if you disagree with their opinions?
  • Musicians should receive more government support.
  • Patriotic songs make people feel passionate and energetic about their country.
  • Depressive and sad tunes can worsen a person’s mood.
  • Doctors and therapists need to understand the importance of music.

Music Evaluation Essay Topics

Do you want to know how to evaluate music? The point is to divide your overall impression into several parts. Music evaluation requires much attention and concentration, so try to do your best to stay focused while listening.

Use these criteria for evaluating music performances:

Pay attention to their emotions, intonation, and body language.
Here you need to decide whether they played or sang the right notes, follow the rhythm, and make transitions.
Think about how the music is relevant to the time period, nationality, and genre they represent. Evaluate the setting, costumes, and other details.
Maybe they talked when it wasn’t necessary, or perhaps someone interrupted the performance. Try to notice everything relevant.
This question involves a subjective opinion, but it’s better to try to answer it as objectively as possible.

Now all you need to do is choose a topic and get down to writing!

  • Discuss the rise and fall of hardcore punk. Many bands that started in the hardcore punk scene softened their sound over time. Why did this genre disappear from the mainstream?
  • Copyright laws are going too far. It’s getting increasingly difficult to use somebody else’s intellectual property. Creators on YouTube have to fear lawsuits for creatively repurposing copyrighted music. Moreover, laws such as the DMCA are frequently abused to generate revenues.
  • More bands should use their influence for political purposes. Renowned artists have a broad reach. Bands like Rise Against or Anti Flag use this influence to raise political awareness among their fans. Is it a fair approach?
  • Borrowing and plagiarism in contemporary music . New artists don’t emerge without having listened to other musicians. They draw inspiration from their predecessors. Thus, songs are always a mix of already existing tracks. In your essay, discuss the difference between homage and plagiarism.
  • What are the similarities between poetry and song lyrics? Songs and poems are similar in that they deliver a message to the audience. Their creation demands extensive knowledge of rhyming, literary devices, and other components.
  • Why do some musicians ask others to write lyrics for them? It is a common practice to have a crew of songwriters who create texts for performers. Sometimes it happens due to a lack of imagination or inspiration. Does finding out that your favorite artist doesn’t write their lyrics destroy the magic of their music?
  • How can popular music diversify as a genre? Pop music reached its peak. Adding and borrowing elements from different genres can be one way to diversify a streamlined genre.
  • The history of music as political propaganda.
  • Explain the difference between high and low contemporary music culture .
  • How is contemporary music related to that from other periods?
  • What are the connections between pop music and the hip-hop genre?
  • What connects popular music and contemporary culture ?
  • How does music in the United States relate to Spanish music ?
  • Analyze the evolution of Indian music .
  • Discuss why certain albums manage to climb to the top of the charts.
  • The link between social classes and musical genres.
  • Differences and similarities of music and other art forms .
  • How does a musical instrument’s origin influence its development?
  • What is the role of traditional music today?

The picture shows a Victor Hugo quote about music.

  • What are the main processes in music production?
  • How is music theory relevant today?
  • Analyze which contemporary artists’ albums had an effect comparable to that of Queen’s A Night at the Opera .
  • Eurodance: Europe’s most extravagant genre.
  • Songs and everyday life of Michael Jackson vs. Madonna: who wins the ultimate pop crown?
  • What difficulties has Eminem faced throughout his career?
  • Over-ear headphones provide a better sound experience than on-ear ones.

Topics for an Expository Essay on Music

An expository essay explains or describes a subject. In the colorful world of music, topics can range from the physics of sound waves to artists’ social impact.

  • The importance of Blues music in the late 19 th century and now. Blues originated in the 19 th century American South. It was an outlet for African Americans to express their sorrows. Later, it exceeded by far the cultural boundaries that confined it.
  • The role of music in prison camps.  Singing was an essential part of life in the Nazi concentration camps. One of the most well-known songs of that time is called  Peat Bog Soldiers . In your expository essay, explore why prisoners started singing and how it developed.  
  • How did Chester Bennington’s death impact the music industry? Linkin Park was a giant in the business for decades until depression made their lead singer take his own life. The event sparked debates surrounding mental health and pressure in the creative industry. What long-lasting effects did these discussions have?
  • How did Baroque music reflect the zeitgeist? Compared to the Renaissance period, Baroque was in all aspects very pompous. The artists of the Sun King’s time didn’t shy away from the extravaganza. This ideal is especially prominent in architecture. How does music fit into the picture?
  • Investigate the development of musical harmony. The Ancient Greeks already had an idea of some tones fitting together better than others. However, it wasn’t until the 1600s that tonality became a crucial part of music theory.
  • Music in commercials: an analysis. Songs and jingles are commonplace in TV commercials. But what are they good for? In your essay, you can compare the success of advertisements with and without music.
  • What causes music trends to change? It’s easy to define various eras of music. Naturally, the invention of new instruments has influenced this development. What other factors played a role in these transformations?
  • Why is 4/4 a universal beat?
  • Examine the origins of The Star-Spangled Banner .
  • The effects of dissonance on the human mind .
  • How do staccato, legato, and other forms of articulation influence the perception of a musical piece?
  • Discuss the significance of music in video games.
  • Music drives people’s motivation.
  • Explain the calming effects of nature sounds .
  • How does music influence literature?
  • Celtic music is known to have an extraordinary impact on the psyche. How does it work?
  • How does music impact the discharge of hormones such as dopamine?
  • Music therapy is suitable for those who have bipolar disorder.
  • What made Falco such a unique artist?
  • How does the perception of a silent film differ from that of a movie with sound?
  • A rock concert by Kansas: How the relevance of live concerts changed over time.
  • Is being able to read music important for a composer?
  • How did Beethoven write music after losing his hearing?
  • Should all songs have proper rhythm and structure?
  • Why do so many indie artists become commercial?
  • Is it essential for song lyrics to rhyme?

History of Music: Essay Topics

If you’re interested in the evolution of music, you’ve come to the right section. Historical research reveals the significance of music throughout time. Unsurprisingly, songs and melodies have been part of human culture for centuries. Dive deeper into this exciting subject with one of the following ideas:

  • How did the Catholic Church influence music development in Europe? During the Middle Ages , religious movements had a significant impact on music. Consequently, composers used to create more sacred music. It became a way of personal expression since it often contained religious texts. 
  • The cultural meaning of Renaissance music and its influence on other styles . During the time of the Renaissance, sacred and secular music heavily impacted each other. As a result, more variety emerged. The chanson and madrigal, for example, became popular around Europe.
  • Research archaeological findings of early musicality. The search for the oldest musical instrument delivers thrilling insights. Archaeologists have excavated a flute made of ivory and bird bones, dating approximately 43,000 years ago. They found it in a cave in Germany where Neanderthals lived.
  • History of early music and appearance of musical instruments. The beginning of the human culture was the turning point of musical instruments’ appearance. They were primarily used for spiritual rites; typically, they were horns or drums for ceremonies.
  • Louis Armstrong’s contributions to the jazz world. Jazz originated in New Orleans and was a favorite among African Americans. Louis Armstrong’s improvisations forever changed the genre, making the soloist-improviser the center of the performance.
  • The phenomenon of pop music and its origins. Popular music dates back to the second half of the last century. It comes from the US and the UK. Its main peculiarity lies in the variety of tunes and lyrics .
  • Native American music before the discovery of the New World. Incas and Aztecs had particular styles of music. Findings show that these ancient civilizations used instruments for ceremonies. Researchers also discovered that various American cultures mingled, thus creating new techniques.
  • The use of string instruments in classical Greek songwriting.
  • Famous composers of 18th century Italy and their influence.
  • Mozart vs. Beethoven: comparison of techniques.
  • Deliver a thoughtful analysis of Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony .
  • What role do acoustic instruments play in jazz compositions?
  • Explore the history of the Ocarina.
  • Due to what circumstances did Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart become one of the greatest musical geniuses in history?
  • Influence of the Romantic period on modern music.
  • How and why were the swing era and jazz connected?
  • Rock and roll as an international language in the 20th century.
  • Explore the rise of techno music.
  • Is there a historical connection between music and math?
  • How did music become a staple subject in many schools?
  • The greatest musicians of World War I.
  • Industrialization and its effect on music development.
  • How did female producers such as Kate Bush impact the music industry?
  • Analyze Frédéric Chopin’s contribution to classical music.
  • Music evolution in ancient Greece vs. the Roman Empire.
  • How does archeology help to uncover musical traditions ?
  • Tupac’s influence on modern rap music.

Classification Essay about Music: Topic Ideas

In a classification essay, you explain how a whole relates to parts or vice versa. To do it, you need to divide one broad category into several subcategories. Each classification paragraph focuses on one subcategory, so you need to find a key feature that will be your basis of division. For example, you can divide music by genre, volume, musical instruments, etc.

Here is our list of musical topics for this essay type:

  • The most popular types of alternative music among teenagers. Naturally, teens like different kinds of rock and experimental music . Try to dig deeper and ask some teenagers about their preferences to get a clear picture.
  • Types of modern dance music . Describe the tendencies and popular genres. You can also focus on a specific country.
  • The most popular types of jazz music in Europe. Although jazz emerged in the United States, this genre became recognizable all over the world. You can analyze the most popular streamed songs, or the concerts and other mass events.
  • Rock music in the ’70s. You can describe the genres, styles, or types of performers. The concerts, clothes, and lifestyles are also suitable for this topic.
  • Blues musicians of different time periods. Analyze the lyrics, the musical instruments they used, and how long their careers lasted.
  • Classification of music for children . Some of it can be for dancing, development, or just listening. Research the purposes of different kinds of music for children.
  • Types of music used in films. The soundtrack is one of the main things we remember after watching a movie. There can be popular songs or tracks composed specifically for a film.
  • Rock bands that represent different subgenres.
  • Rap subgenres in the United States.
  • Periods of classical music.
  • What motivates people to start a musical career?
  • Different kinds of music for relaxation.
  • The industries where composers work.
  • Types of opera singers and instrumental music.
  • Different professions in the music industry.
  • Unpopular genres of independent music.
  • Different types of music listeners.

College Essay about Music: Topics

When you apply to your dream college, you need to write an impressive essay. Admissions officers pay attention not only to your grades and achievements but also to your personality. Your writing can indicate your motivation, academic interests, and how well you fit into the college. Writing an essay about “music in my life” is a great way to demonstrate your passion and creativity.

Choose one of these topics related to music for your college essay:

  • The role of music in your life.  Describe what music means to you, how often you listen to it, and how it helps you in life. For example, you can write about inspiration, motivation, or the sense of  freedom  that it gives you.  
  • What are the essential aspects of music for you? Try to write down everything you like about music. It might be melodies, lyrics, vocals, or mood. You can choose several aspects if you feel that you can’t decide.
  • The time when music changed your life. In this essay, you can pick one occurrence or describe how music changed your life gradually. It’s important to indicate where you started from and where it led you.
  • How do you see the future of the music industry? Demonstrate to the admissions officer how well you know the art and the business.
  • Your role model in the music industry. You may write about the qualities of the person you admire and why you want to develop them in yourself. Remember that admission officers want to read about you, not your idol.
  • How did your musical taste change over the last ten years? Describe the evolution of your preferences. Explain why you have changed some of your past choices. Do you think your musical taste has improved?
  • Your favorite musical genre.
  • Does listening to music help to heal body and spirit?
  • What is the best music performance you have ever seen?
  • Why do people become fans of particular musicians?
  • Your favorite song lyrics .
  • Can people be judged by their musical taste?
  • Why is music an essential part of human culture?
  • Quote about music that appeals to you the most.
  • How can music education help you in the future?
  • Do you prefer listening to music or performing it?
  • How can music change your mood?
  • Why you want to become a musician.
  • Which culture has the most beautiful ethnical music?
  • Is music more of an art or business?
  • What are the essential parts of musical education ?

Other Music Essay Topics

  • Why do supermarkets play music? Think of the reasons why marketers use music in advertising and how it impacts customer behavior.
  • An analysis of Robert Wise’s The Sound of Music . Evaluate how the director uses music to tell a story.
  • The impact of music on the human brain. Examine the latest research in the mental health field and how music therapy affects depression treatments.
  • The workings of the music industry . Assess how contemporary audio technology and touring lifestyle affect musicians.
  • The role of music in different cultures. Choose and compare two countries to analyze their perspectives on the music industry.
  • Music on television . Evaluate how the music of TV shows and movies impacts the audience’s feelings and behavior.
  • Oliver Sacks’ contribution to music psychology. Explore the theories he discusses in Musicophilia and describe its influence on music psychology.
  • Should all music be available for free download? Think about the ethical and legal aspects of this issue.
  • How did music psychology help the development of music education? Try to find a correlation between these two fields.
  • Britney Spears and the adverse effects of teen popularity. Writing about this topic, you might want to focus on how her early fame affected her life. What happened after her famous breakdown in 2007?
  • The half-life of one-hit-wonders. Focus your paper on quantitative research. How long do one-hit-wonders stay famous on average? Why do they fail to maintain their success?
  • Journalism and the music industry. Examine the effects positive or negative press had on a musician of your choice.
  • Festivals and sponsorship. Discuss the benefits that corporate sponsors and the creators of music festivals gain from working together.
  • Rock songs and pessimistic lyrics. Why do most popular rock songs have such sad and angry lyrics?
  • Discuss the development of your music taste. Write about what pushed you to change and how it influenced your life.
  • The psychology of music. Examine what someone’s favorite music genre can tell about their personality.
  • Is ASMR music? ASMR artists make quiet sounds to soothe their audience. But can we really consider it music?
  • A historical analysis of jazz. Explore how African Americans influenced the flourishing culture of jazz that has spread worldwide.
  • The effect of classical music on children’s cognitive abilities. Supposedly, classical music is great for kids. Study this theory and make your conclusions.
  • Discuss the characteristics of modern Latin American music. Dive into its diversity and describe the reasons for its popularity.
  • How do Chinese artists make traditional music? Write about its complex creation process. Analyze the importance of articulation for composers.
  • The history of music . With this essay, explore the six periods of music history. To top it off, you can predict what music will be like in the future.
  • The music industry goes online. Discuss the importance of the internet for the industry and the challenges associated with it.
  • The magic of instrumental music. Pick your favorite orchestra pieces and find unique features in each of them.
  • Musical education: the sound of success? Does everyone need a musical background?
  • Explore the latest techniques in songwriting. Look into the song creation process of contemporary musicians. How do they get the audience to enjoy their art?
  • Compare and contrast e-pianos and keyboards. In doing so, consider their structure, sound, and features.
  • The Woodstock festival as a game-changer. How has the Woodstock Music and Art Fair influenced the current state of the music industry? Additionally, investigate how current festivals hold up to the standards set by Woodstock.
  • Music therapy for stroke patients. Find out whether incorporating elements of music therapy can support the treatment of patients who suffered a stroke.
  • How do amplifiers work? If you’re a musician, you’ve likely used an amplifier before. Now it’s time to figure out what they are actually doing.
  • The Killers’ contributions to indie rock. How would you define their style of music? What makes them a key player in indie music?
  • Analyze the music in Grease . Pick some of the most popular songs from the musical and write about their influence on American culture.
  • What’s the best way to interpret songs? Describe methods to deconstruct songs and how the music style affects this process.
  • Teufel vs. Sennheiser: the ultimate comparison. German sound equipment manufacturers are known for their cutting-edge technologies. But which brand is the best?
  • What role does harmony play in music composition? Choose several pieces of music and describe how the artists used harmony.
  • How necessary are double bass drums? Do musicians place them on stage just to impress people, or do they have actual use?
  • Compare regular festivals and free ones. Why spend hundreds of dollars on Coachella if you can go to Woodstock for free? In your essay, focus on the differences such as size, participating artists, and general entertainment.
  • A historical analysis of choral music. Singing in groups is a practice common across various cultures. You might choose one or two to work on.
  • How did The Rolling Stones influence British culture? The Rolling Stones are one of the longest-standing rock bands of all time. Naturally, this left significant marks on their home country.
  • How important are regional accents for English-language singers? When working on this theoretical topic, include some examples and your personal opinion.
  • The world of musical instruments: medieval music. This fun essay can focus on different types of medieval instruments and their evolution.
  • Does the creative process differ for electronic and acoustic music? Look at how artists usually write songs. Do they start with the melody, the rhythm, or the lyrics? Does it depend on the medium?
  • The correlation between poems and medieval songs. Find out how composers were reinventing poetry to create songs.
  • Hip-hop and gender equality. What is the role of women in the development of this music style? Don’t forget to give examples.
  • When politics interferes with art: Eurovision. Analyze the role of the political situation in this song contest. Is there anything left of its original idea?
  • How did Vladimir Vysotsky become a beloved musical figure outside of Soviet Russia? It’s unusual for Russian-language musicians to gain fame outside of their home country. Research how Vysotsky managed to mingle in the USA and have some of his work posthumously released in Europe.
  • K-pop conquers the world . You may narrow the topic down to a specific artist. Focus on the influence of Korean music in other cultures.
  • Music school students vs. amateurs. Discuss the different experiences and outcomes of music school students and those who learn to play instruments at home.
  • Do music choices shape one’s identity , or is it the other way around? It’s an exciting question that lets you dig deep into the psychology of music.
  • The music of dissents. Energizing songs play an essential part in rebellions and revolutions. For example, analyze how protesters used music during the Arab Spring.
  • The development and popularity of electronic music. Starting from the early experiments, analyze the development of this style and its increasing influence
  • How do artists use social media to promote their music? You might want to choose one or two examples to illustrate the tools they use.
  • Organum as one of the oldest written types of music . Study the development of this music style throughout various cultures.
  • The appeal of Metallica’s Nothing Else Matters. Many people consider the song one of their favorites. Examine its structure, melody, and lyrics. What makes it unique?
  • Africa’s hidden musical gems. African music is as diverse as its people. Pick two countries and compare their style. How do they differ from Western art?
  • Did people’s music tastes improve compared to previous decades? Here, you have the chance to express your views on the evolution of people’s music preferences.
  • Is the life of pop stars as easy as people think? Share your thoughts on whether famous musicians and singers have a leisurely lifestyle.
  • Physiological reactions to different types of music. Study how your body reacts to various beats and tones.
  • Why do people tend to listen to specific songs on certain occasions? In your essay, ponder the effects of love songs or powerful anthems on one’s mood .
  • What does someone’s ringtone say about their personality ? Think about how it affects your perception of a person.
  • The impact of music on the individual’s productivity . Studies suggest a positive effect on people’s performance when they listen to something pleasant while working. But all the noise can get overstimulating. That’s why finding the balance is central.
  • Music is natural. In the depth of nature, there is music. Rain, a bird’s song, or the tapping of a squirrel’s feet melt together to create a beautiful composition. Music is everywhere—one only needs to listen carefully.

If you haven’t found what you’re looking for, you’re welcome to use our topic generator .

✍️ Music Essay: How to Write

So, you have chosen your essay title. Now it’s time to start writing! But before you begin, read the sections below and learn how to organize your work.

How to Describe Music in Writing

You might think that writing about music is like dancing about architecture. Well, it is not an easy task, but we know how to cope with it.

Follow these tips while writing:

  • Make a comparison.  Explain which characteristics of a piece remind you or are identical to those of another one. It’s better to avoid comparing music from different composers in this case. Instead, evaluate and analyze two musical pieces from the same composer.
  • Describe the melody and dynamics.  You may want to use musical terms to show your knowledge and proficiency. Define the genre and what kind of instruments and tones are used.
  • Explain how it makes you feel.  You can use basic human emotions to describe the feelings of a listener. For example, it can be anger, tenderness, irritation, excitement, or nostalgia.
  • Use metaphorical language.  You may try using your imagination to create analogies. Be careful not to make your metaphors overcomplicated, as it may confuse the readers.

Essays about Music: Descriptive Words

Do you want your essay on music to be interesting and expressive? Then you may want to use descriptive vocabulary. Here are some of the terms that you can use in your essay to make it sound more professional:

  • Tempo is the “speed” of music. There are fixed expressions to define tempo—for example, largo, moderate, or presto. You can also describe how fast the music feels.
  • Timbre is the term that evaluates the “color” of music. Even if two instruments play the same note of the same volume, the sound is still different. This is how you can notice the color of the tone. For example, gentle, clear, heavy, or warm can be the adjectives to describe timbre.
  • Dynamics define the volume levels of music. The volume can be the same all the time, for example loud or soft. If the volume of music changes, you can use such expressions as “gradually gets louder” “or suddenly becomes soft.”
  • Harmony characterizes how all the notes and chords sound together. The sequence of chords—chord progression—defines how satisfying the melody is for the listener. For example, if the transitions are smooth, you can use such words as “relaxed” or “warm.”

Music Essay Outline

Like any other assignment, writing about music requires a proper essay outline that will guide you through the writing. The following sections will help you with that.

Before you start, here are some tips that will help you prepare for writing:

  • Do some prior research. Try to learn as much as possible about the piece you will be writing about. It’s also helpful to listen to the music several times with headphones to notice more details.
  • Don’t be afraid of asking questions. Consult your instructor if you’re unsure about your topic or the piece you have chosen.
  • Choose the topic that you like. If you’re passionate about a subject, it is always easier to write about it. Who said that homework could not be interesting?
  • Follow the recommendations that your instructor gives. It includes word limit, formatting style, deadline, and essay type.

Music Essay Introduction

The introduction is the section where you come up with a brief explanation of the topic. You may start it with a quotation, definition, or short statement that catches your reader’s attention and leads them to the essay subject.

A thesis statement is usually the last sentence of the introduction that defines the content of body paragraphs. It needs to be specific and not longer than two sentences. If you decide to shift the focus of your essay while writing, it’s crucial to change your thesis too.

Different types of essays require different thesis statements. Let’s take a closer look:

Essay typeExplanationThesis example
You need to evaluate an issue or idea. It can be a review of a concert or music piece. Pink Floyd’s use of multimedia in enriched the listener’s experience and created additional meanings.
Here you need to explain an idea, problem, or opinion to your readers. Modern rap performers influence behavioral patterns among teenagers through their lyrics and visuals.
Your aim is to introduce a claim and justify it by using evidence. David Bowie became one of the most significant musicians of the 20 century by mastering various music genres.

Music Essay Body

Your essay’s body is the most significant part of your writing. Here, you provide evidence and explanations of your claims.

The typical body paragraph structure includes:

  • A topic sentence explaining the argument for a particular paragraph.
  • An introduction to the evidence you gathered to support an argument.
  • Quotes and facts (don’t forget about proper citation!) and their explanation.
  • A connection between the evidence and the essay topic.
  • Paragraph transitions  leading your reader to the next section.

Topic Sentence about Music

Topic sentences can be used as a roadmap to writing your essay. Each body paragraph begins with a topic sentence that defines what the paragraph is about. It introduces the argument or main thought that will be explained. It’s also connected with the thesis statement.

It’s essential to make your thesis easy to understand, so it’s better not to overcomplicate it. For example, here’s an unsuccessful topic sentence with unnecessary words:

As stated above, the guitar is an essential musical instrument in rock music that defines how it sounds.

Instead, you can formulate it like this:

The guitar is the most iconic musical instrument in rock music that defines how it sounds.

Music Essay Conclusion

When writing a conclusion for your essay on music, you can use the following structure:

  • Summarize the text in a few sentences.
  • Review the key points of your paper.
  • Paraphrase the thesis.

To make your essay conclusion more effective, avoid the following:

. Try to and analyze it, and add some information from the body paragraphs.
You don’t have to fully paraphrase your thesis statement. However, you can mirror it in some way.
It’s like finishing a movie with an unsolved problem. It’s also better to avoid rhetorical questions as they are not specific enough.
You can use quotes in the introduction or body paragraphs, but make sure to use only your own words in the conclusion. Otherwise, the readers might think you don’t have a personal opinion on the topic.

📑 What Music Means to Me: Essay Example

Now you know all about writing an essay on music! To make it even easier for you, we’ve prepared an essay sample that you can use for inspiration. Check it out:

Title: Music in my life
Introduction Music is an essential part of my life. It makes everyday experiences fuller and brighter. The charm of music is in its ability to match my every single emotion.
Thesis statement For me, music is connected with happiness, relaxation, and motivation.
1st body paragraph First of all, music makes me happy. I listen to music whenever I am very cheerful or upset. In the first case, it makes my happiness double stronger. It brings the feeling of euphoria and makes me want to dance and jump. In contrast, whenever I’m depressed, music helps me forget about my problems.
2nd body paragraph When I listen to my favorite songs, I feel relaxed. If I have a busy day, the best thing I can do in the evening is put on my headphones and turn on the music. It also works every time I’m stressed out or nervous. Songs make me feel calm and help me to make decisions.
3rd body paragraph Last but not least, music keeps me motivated. Sometimes I feel overwhelmed and just want to give up. That is why, as soon as everything seems pointless, I turn on upbeat, inspiring music. In such circumstances, I try to listen to the lyrics of my favorite songs. I always find the exact words that keep me going.
Conclusion All in all, I cannot imagine my life without music. It helps me to stay optimistic when going through my troubles. I wouldn’t be who I am without music.

Now all you need is to turn the music on and get down to writing! We hope you liked this guide. If you did, don’t hesitate to share it with your friends.

Further reading:

  • How to Write a Good Critique Paper: Killer Tips + Examples
  • How to Write an Art Critique Essay: Guidelines and Examples
  • How to Write a Movie Critique Paper: Top Tips + Example
  • Modern Fairy Tale Essay: How to Write, Topics and Ideas
  • 200 Creative Topics for Opinion Essays
  • 182 Free Ideas for Argumentative or Persuasive Essay Topics
  • 180 Excellent Evaluation Essay Topics

✏️ Music Essay FAQ

Music is a vast topic. An essay might deal with anything ranging from trends in the 1950s to the best guitarists of all time. Writing an introduction to certain music styles or bands is also possible. In any case, the paper should be well-structured, logical, and cohesive.

Writing about music doesn’t necessarily require any specific skills. If you’re not familiar with the theory of music and can’t play musical instruments, you can just write about the music you like. Here are some topic ideas: favorite music band, style, or how you perceive music.

You can interpret music as a topic in various ways. If you are getting a degree in this field, you might want to write something more specific and technical. If your essay aims to merely inform and entertain, write about your favorite music style or band.

If you are writing an essay for school, a good choice would be an expository essay. It doesn’t require any specific knowledge of the music industry. Title suggestions might be: “My perception of music,” “My favorite band,” “How music can change the world.”

  • What is the Music Industry? Definition and Facts: Study.com
  • What Music Do You Write To?: Writers & Artists
  • A Music Review: British Council
  • Music: UNC Writing Center: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
  • Sound and Sense: Writing about Music: Colorado State University
  • Music analysis Research Papers: Academia.edu
  • The Power of Music Therapy: Belmont University
  • Musicology: Northwestern Bienen School of Music
  • Musicology: Areas of Study: Indiana State University
  • Music Facts: Facts.net
  • Music History from Primary Sources: Library of Congress
  • Music: Encyclopedia Britannica
  • A History of Classical Music: Part 1: The List
  • What Is Jazz: Smithsonian Institution
  • The 50 Greatest Composers of All Time: Classical Music
  • Musical Terms and Concepts: SUNY Potsdam
  • Ethnomusicology: University of Oxford
  • Music Research Process: Syracuse University
  • Journal of Popular Music Studies: University of California Press
  • The History of Pop Music in 5 Defining Decades: The Culture Trip
  • Music of the 20 th Century: Lumen Learning
  • Explainer: Indie Music: The Conversation
  • Your Brain on Music: University of Central Florida
  • Music and Health: Harvard University
  • The Psychological Function of Music Listening: NIH
  • Essays that Worked: Hamilton
  • Writing in Music: Writing Thesis Statements: The City University of New York
  • Academic Writing about Music: University of Denver
  • How to Write Song Lyrics: Berklee
  • Essay Introduction: University of Maryland
  • Tips and Examples for Writing Thesis Statements: Purdue University
  • Writing Body Paragraphs: Monash University
  • Some Tips for Writing Efficient, Effective Body Paragraphs: University of California, Berkeley
  • Writing a Paper: Conclusions: Walden University
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Thank you very much for this post on music essay writing! You don’t know how long I looked for the helpful information on writing music essays!

Music takes an important part in my life. I wake up and go to bed listening to music. And now when I’m writing my music essay, I also listen to music. And it’s also a pleasure to read an article on how to write an essay on music!

Home / Essay Samples / Music / Music Genre / Song Analysis

Song Analysis Essay Examples

A song analysis essay examples is a form of literary analysis that delves into the meaning, symbolism, and artistic elements of a song’s lyrics and composition. The purpose of such an essay is to explore the deeper layers of a song’s message, uncover its thematic implications, and provide insights into the emotions and ideas it conveys. Through careful examination, song analysis essays provide readers with a richer appreciation for the artistry of music and its ability to evoke powerful emotions.

Exploration of Lyrics and Themes

One of the primary goals of a song analysis essay is to explore the lyrics and themes of the song in-depth. This involves dissecting the words, metaphors, and narrative elements used by the songwriter to convey a specific message or tell a story. Essays of this nature aim to uncover the underlying emotions and ideas behind the song’s words.

Song analysis essays also focus on the musical elements of the composition, including melody, rhythm, harmony, and instrumentation. These essays explore how these elements contribute to the mood and atmosphere of the song, enhancing the overall impact of the message being conveyed.

Many songs incorporate symbolism to convey deeper meanings. Song analysis essays aim to interpret and decode the symbolic language used by the songwriter. This can involve analyzing recurring motifs, imagery, and metaphors to understand their significance and how they contribute to the song’s overall meaning.

Tips for Writing a Song Analysis Essay

Choose a Song: Select a song that resonates with you and has layers of meaning to explore. Thesis Statement: Begin with a clear thesis that outlines the main themes and elements you will analyze. Lyric Analysis: Examine the lyrics closely, paying attention to word choices, figurative language, and narrative structure. Musical Analysis: Discuss the musical elements and how they contribute to the emotional impact of the song. Context: Consider the historical, cultural, and personal context that might influence the song’s meaning. Supporting Evidence: Use quotes from the song’s lyrics and reference musical elements as evidence for your analysis. Interpretation: Offer your own interpretation of the song’s meaning, supported by your analysis. Conclusion: Summarize your findings and discuss the broader implications of the song’s themes.

A song analysis essay serves as a way to appreciate the artistry and depth of songs beyond their surface level. By analyzing lyrics, themes, and musical elements, these essays provide insights into the emotions, ideas, and experiences that music can convey, making the listening experience more meaningful and thought-provoking.

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Analysis of Frank Sinatra’s Song Witchcraft

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The Peculiarities of Taylor Swift's 'Bad Blood'

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Rhetorical Analysis of Tupac Shakur's 'The Rose that Grew from Concrete'

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The Symbol of the American Flag in 'Allentown' Song

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Review of Album the Freewheelin' Bob Dylan

'The Freewheelin' Bob Dylan' second album of the second album a famous American singer Bob Dylan. This album was released on May 27, 1963 by Columbia Records. This album consisted of 13 songs among which eleven songs were the original composition of Dylan himself. Songs...

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