Knowing vs. Understanding
Love Music More · hosted by Luke F. Walton (Scoobert Doobert) · Solo episode
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Topics discussed
Host note
In this episode, I dive deep into the concepts of knowing versus understanding in the realm of music creation and appreciation. I reflect on how these two seemingly similar ideas play contrasting roles in the journey of musicians and composers. By examining historical figures like Beethoven and the Beatles, I shed light on how practical experience often shapes a musician's voice more profoundly than theoretical knowledge alone.
Selected moments
- Beethoven's Early Compositional Journey 0:47 I discuss the significance of Beethoven starting to compose before formally being deemed ready by his mentors.
- Theory vs. Practicality in Music 1:35 The host reflects on the difference between understanding music theory and the practical knowledge exemplified by artists like the Beatles.
- Imitation in Learning Music 3:04 I elaborat on Beethoven's practice of imitating Mozart as a way to develop my unique voice.
- Transcribing Musical Nuances 4:32 I discuss the importance of not just transcription of notes in jazz, but also capturing the nuances of performance.
- Inductive vs. Deductive Learning 6:01 Analysis of different methods of learning music: inductive (through practice) versus deductive (through theory).
- Internalization in Music Learning 6:46 I emphasize how internalizing music is crucial to developing an authentic artistic voice.
Selected excerpts
...it was an interesting kind of take on the compositional mind. Because Beethoven started working on composition before his teachers... told him that he was ready.
Some people have both. That's probably the best thing to have. And then there are other people that have knowing... they clearly knew it.
...best thing you can actually go do is talk to somebody and fumble and learn how to speak and then figure out how to speak in your own way. Music is very much the same.
FAQ
What is the difference between knowing and understanding in music?
I discuss how knowing refers to practical knowledge gained through doing, while understanding is more about theoretical knowledge.
How did Beethoven learn to compose?
Beethoven practiced imitation and absorbed the music of my influences, notably Mozart, to develop my unique style.
What role does imitation play in music learning?
Imitation allows musicians to internalize techniques and develop their own voice through practice.
Curated notes only — no public transcript. Listen on the links above.