Some people say music is a good way of bringing people of different
cultures and ages together.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
I absolutely agree with this statement. If somebody asks me "Is there any signs or
codes that could be understood by all human beings?" I will, without hesitation,
reply," it is musical signs and codes that is a universal language."
In human history, we have seen some great musician and musical composers who
have made immortal contribution to this universal language with famous pieces of
songs and melodies. One of the typical examples is Beethoven. His musical tune has
been and is still heard and enjoyed by people all around the world. Another example
is Mozart. Once I visited Salzburg where stands the Mozart Museum. I noticed that
there were many music lovers from various parts of the world. Though they spoke
different languages, it was music that bridged their linguistic gap.
In addition, music can serve as a common tongue to all peoples, regardless of their
nationality and ethnicity. In opening and closing ceremonies of Olympic Games, the
songs and musical tunes send the same message to all players and audience,
whether they are white or black, old or young.
The most telling evidence comes from my own experience. Years ago, I had a
next-door neighbor who was a violinist from Turkey. One night he was playing a piece
of well-known Chinese musical tune. When asked how he came to love Chinese
music, he shrugged and replied, “well, music knows no boundaries of countries and
cultures, so it can, and should, be appreciated by all peoples." Definitely, he was
right.
In conclusion, it is my firm conviction that music is the true, probably only, universal
language to mankind. This language can be understood by all peoples from different
cultures and ages and bring them together.