RNA 2: Element Oriented Instruction - Learn to Listen to Learn

Musical Perception - Learn To Listen/Listen To Learn

When we hear music, we are using our ears to decode variations in air pressure into concepts which we then either integrate into, or simply acknowledge the existence of within, our consciousness.  When we hear a pattern or timbre of noise we classify it in our brains according to its associative entity (dog, airplane, banjo).  In the same way that a compiled programming language is initially examined very thoroughly (compiled), and after which it's recognized (because it's now integrated) and processed with only a fraction of the intensity as it was initially - sounds are examined (processed) heavily when first encountered and given less attention on subsequent encounters.  A variation in any of the acoustic properties of the sound can trigger a heavier examination by our brains.  That specific variation is integrated and will sound more familiar to us at next encounter.  Such pattern of compilation (on the initial examination) and integration (stored for later processing) is exactly why musicians with innovative aspects to their musical style demand our attention.  If we choose to listen to them, our brains must process the data as it's perceived. 

If it sounds different, we can't help but to notice it.  I once had a Brazilian roommate who frequently spoke in Portuguese during lengthy phone conversations.  Even with substantial background noise, I found it nearly impossible (earplugs) to tune-out their dialogue.  The phonetics, cadence and vocabulary of Portuguese demanded to be processed with a high-priority flag since they were foreign to me.  When my roommate resumed the conversation in English it wouldn't distract me.   Music is processed in the same manner.