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

1. Compare different recording formats.
2. The purpose of music.
3. Ternary and rondo: compare and contrast.
4. Music as a lifestyle.
5. The benefits of singing.
6. Ethnomusicology as a career.
7. Evolution of the radio.
8. The importance of school musicals.
9. Music as a tool for meditation.
10. 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.

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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.

11. 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?
12. 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.
13. 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?
14. 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.
15. 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.
16. 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?
17. Can a person become addicted to music?
18. Censorship on the radio: why stations shouldn’t bleep out obscenities.
19. Is mandatory musical education in high schools practical?
20. The impact of Mozart’s music on toddlers.
21. Should a musician’s personal life affect people’s perception of their art?
22. How susceptible are teenagers to political messages in songs?
23. Music influences one’s mental and physical capabilities.
24. Are children who listen to music more intelligent than others?
25. Music genres are inherently dependent on musical instruments.
26. Is music as an art form more popular than cinema?
27. Debate whether rap musicians promote a frivolous and careless lifestyle.
28. Many musicians became famous only because they’ve had connections.
29. Music festivals are the best form of entertainment.
30. Does music always sound better live than on records?
31. Is classical music better than modern genres?
32. Is it justified that some religions view music as a sin?
33. Typically, music defines a culture and its traditions: true or false?
34. Rap music has a strong connection to rebellious movements.
35. Jamaican music’s link to the stoner lifestyle is unjustified.
36. 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.

37. 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.
38. 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.
39. 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.
40. 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.
41. 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?
42. 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.
43. Is music good for stress relief?
44. How does music connect people?
45. Analyze qualities that good musicians shouldn’t have.
46. Who are the most excellent musicians in the country genre?
47. Is it possible to live without interacting with music?
48. Choose three successful rappers and analyze their influence.
49. How can a musician become famous without having money or connections?
50. What are the difficulties of being in a band?
51. Who impacted the development of indie music the most?
52. Is pop music losing its popularity? If so, why?
53. Three factors that affected your choice of a favorite genre.
54. Which artists are the most prominent in power metal?
55. Which record label is the most influential now?
56. Can Justin Bieber’s songs be considered legendary?
57. Did Kanye West introduce a new kind of rap?
58. Which rock bands lost their fame because of a scandal? How did it happen?
59. Discuss Dire Straits’ impact on music history.
60. Who are currently the most successful women pop singers?
61. Why are some music genres more popular than others?
62. 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:

63. 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?
64. 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?

65. 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?
66. 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?
67. 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?
68. 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.
69. 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?
70. The meaning of freedom for jazz as a musical genre.
71. Punk rock has recently witnessed a renaissance.
72. Exposing plants to classical music makes them grow faster.
73. Classical music: intellectually stimulating or relaxing?
74. Is it justified that some countries legally prohibit artists from performing?
75. Is it easier for children to learn with music?
76. Can a person ever become a great artist without a natural talent?
77. Should workplaces allow their employees to listen to background music?
78. Jimi Hendrix’s guitar skills are still unmatched.
79. The impact of pop music on European culture and trends.
80. Kurt Cobain’s death should have been a wake-up call for the music industry.
81. Why is music beneficial to society?
82. Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan’s legacy can be felt even today.
83. Nintendocore is a legitimate genre that the industry should take more seriously.
84. Should you listen to a bands’ music even if you disagree with their opinions?
85. Musicians should receive more government support.
86. Patriotic songs make people feel passionate and energetic about their country.
87. Depressive and sad tunes can worsen a person’s mood.
88. 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:

Did the performers have passion?	Pay attention to their emotions, intonation, and body language.
Did they perform technically well?	Here you need to decide whether they played or sang the right notes, follow the rhythm, and make transitions.
How well does their performance represent the culture?	Think about how the music is relevant to the time period, nationality, and genre they represent. Evaluate the setting, costumes, and other details.
What were the main flows?	Maybe they talked when it wasn’t necessary, or perhaps someone interrupted the performance. Try to notice everything relevant.
Was the performance enjoyable?	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!

89. 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?
90. 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.
91. 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?
92. 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.
93. 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.
94. 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?
95. 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.
96. The history of music as political propaganda.
97. Explain the difference between high and low contemporary music culture.
98. How is contemporary music related to that from other periods?
99. What are the connections between pop music and the hip-hop genre?
100. What connects popular music and contemporary culture?
101. How does music in the United States relate to Spanish music?
102. Analyze the evolution of Indian music.
103. Discuss why certain albums manage to climb to the top of the charts.
104. The link between social classes and musical genres.
105. Differences and similarities of music and other art forms.
106. How does a musical instrument’s origin influence its development?
107. What is the role of traditional music today?

108. What are the main processes in music production?
109. How is music theory relevant today?
110. Analyze which contemporary artists’ albums had an effect comparable to that of Queen’s A Night at the Opera.
111. Eurodance: Europe’s most extravagant genre.
112. Songs and everyday life of Michael Jackson vs. Madonna: who wins the ultimate pop crown?
113. What difficulties has Eminem faced throughout his career?
114. 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.

115. 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.
116. 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.
117. 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?
118. 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?
119. 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.
120. 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.
121. 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?
122. Why is 4/4 a universal beat?
123. Examine the origins of The Star-Spangled Banner.
124. The effects of dissonance on the human mind.
125. How do staccato, legato, and other forms of articulation influence the perception of a musical piece?
126. Discuss the significance of music in video games.
127. Music drives people’s motivation.
128. Explain the calming effects of nature sounds.
129. How does music influence literature?
130. Celtic music is known to have an extraordinary impact on the psyche. How does it work?
131. How does music impact the discharge of hormones such as dopamine?
132. Music therapy is suitable for those who have bipolar disorder.
133. What made Falco such a unique artist?
134. How does the perception of a silent film differ from that of a movie with sound?
135. A rock concert by Kansas: How the relevance of live concerts changed over time.
136. Is being able to read music important for a composer?
137. How did Beethoven write music after losing his hearing?
138. Should all songs have proper rhythm and structure?
139. Why do so many indie artists become commercial?
140. 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:

141. 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. 
142. 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.
143. 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.
144. 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.
145. 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.
146. 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.
147. 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.
148. The use of string instruments in classical Greek songwriting.
149. Famous composers of 18th century Italy and their influence.
150. Mozart vs. Beethoven: comparison of techniques.
151. Deliver a thoughtful analysis of Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony.
152. What role do acoustic instruments play in jazz compositions?
153. Explore the history of the Ocarina.
154. Due to what circumstances did Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart become one of the greatest musical geniuses in history?
155. Influence of the Romantic period on modern music.
156. How and why were the swing era and jazz connected?
157. Rock and roll as an international language in the 20th century.
158. Explore the rise of techno music.
159. Is there a historical connection between music and math?
160. How did music become a staple subject in many schools?
161. The greatest musicians of World War I.
162. Industrialization and its effect on music development.
163. How did female producers such as Kate Bush impact the music industry?
164. Analyze Frédéric Chopin’s contribution to classical music.
165. Music evolution in ancient Greece vs. the Roman Empire.
166. How does archeology help to uncover musical traditions?
167. 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:

168. 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.
169. Types of modern dance music. Describe the tendencies and popular genres. You can also focus on a specific country.
170. 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.
171. 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.
172. Blues musicians of different time periods. Analyze the lyrics, the musical instruments they used, and how long their careers lasted.
173. 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.
174. 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.
175. Rock bands that represent different subgenres.
176. Rap subgenres in the United States.
177. Periods of classical music.
178. What motivates people to start a musical career?
179. Different kinds of music for relaxation.
180. The industries where composers work.
181. Types of opera singers and instrumental music.
182. Different professions in the music industry.
183. Unpopular genres of independent music.
184. 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:

185. 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.
186. 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.
187. 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.
188. How do you see the future of the music industry? Demonstrate to the admissions officer how well you know the art and the business.
189. 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.
190. 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?
191. Your favorite musical genre.
192. Does listening to music help to heal body and spirit?
193. What is the best music performance you have ever seen?
194. Why do people become fans of particular musicians?
195. Your favorite song lyrics.
196. Can people be judged by their musical taste?
197. Why is music an essential part of human culture?
198. Quote about music that appeals to you the most.
199. How can music education help you in the future?
200. Do you prefer listening to music or performing it?
201. How can music change your mood?
202. Why you want to become a musician.
203. Which culture has the most beautiful ethnical music?
204. Is music more of an art or business?
205. What are the essential parts of musical education?

Other Music Essay Topics

206. Why do supermarkets play music? Think of the reasons why marketers use music in advertising and how it impacts customer behavior.
207. An analysis of Robert Wise’s The Sound of Music. Evaluate how the director uses music to tell a story.
208. The impact of music on the human brain. Examine the latest research in the mental health field and how music therapy affects depression treatments.
209. The workings of the music industry. Assess how contemporary audio technology and touring lifestyle affect musicians.
210. The role of music in different cultures. Choose and compare two countries to analyze their perspectives on the music industry.
211. Music on television. Evaluate how the music of TV shows and movies impacts the audience’s feelings and behavior.
212. Oliver Sacks’ contribution to music psychology. Explore the theories he discusses in Musicophilia and describe its influence on music psychology.
213. Should all music be available for free download? Think about the ethical and legal aspects of this issue.
214. How did music psychology help the development of music education? Try to find a correlation between these two fields.
215. 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?
216. 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?
217. Journalism and the music industry. Examine the effects positive or negative press had on a musician of your choice.
218. Festivals and sponsorship. Discuss the benefits that corporate sponsors and the creators of music festivals gain from working together.
219. Rock songs and pessimistic lyrics. Why do most popular rock songs have such sad and angry lyrics?
220. Discuss the development of your music taste. Write about what pushed you to change and how it influenced your life.
221. The psychology of music. Examine what someone’s favorite music genre can tell about their personality.
222. Is ASMR music? ASMR artists make quiet sounds to soothe their audience. But can we really consider it music?
223. A historical analysis of jazz. Explore how African Americans influenced the flourishing culture of jazz that has spread worldwide.
224. The effect of classical music on children’s cognitive abilities. Supposedly, classical music is great for kids. Study this theory and make your conclusions.
225. Discuss the characteristics of modern Latin American music. Dive into its diversity and describe the reasons for its popularity.
226. How do Chinese artists make traditional music? Write about its complex creation process. Analyze the importance of articulation for composers.
227. 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.
228. The music industry goes online. Discuss the importance of the internet for the industry and the challenges associated with it.
229. The magic of instrumental music. Pick your favorite orchestra pieces and find unique features in each of them.
230. Musical education: the sound of success? Does everyone need a musical background?
231. 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?
232. Compare and contrast e-pianos and keyboards. In doing so, consider their structure, sound, and features.
233. 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.
234. Music therapy for stroke patients. Find out whether incorporating elements of music therapy can support the treatment of patients who suffered a stroke.
235. 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.
236. The Killers’ contributions to indie rock. How would you define their style of music? What makes them a key player in indie music?
237. Analyze the music in Grease. Pick some of the most popular songs from the musical and write about their influence on American culture.
238. What’s the best way to interpret songs? Describe methods to deconstruct songs and how the music style affects this process.
239. Teufel vs. Sennheiser: the ultimate comparison. German sound equipment manufacturers are known for their cutting-edge technologies. But which brand is the best?
240. What role does harmony play in music composition? Choose several pieces of music and describe how the artists used harmony.
241. How necessary are double bass drums? Do musicians place them on stage just to impress people, or do they have actual use?
242. 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.
243. 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.
244. 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.
245. How important are regional accents for English-language singers? When working on this theoretical topic, include some examples and your personal opinion.
246. The world of musical instruments: medieval music. This fun essay can focus on different types of medieval instruments and their evolution.
247. 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?
248. The correlation between poems and medieval songs. Find out how composers were reinventing poetry to create songs.
249. Hip-hop and gender equality. What is the role of women in the development of this music style? Don’t forget to give examples.
250. 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?
251. 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.
252. 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.
253. Music school students vs. amateurs. Discuss the different experiences and outcomes of music school students and those who learn to play instruments at home.
254. 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.
255. 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.
256. The development and popularity of electronic music. Starting from the early experiments, analyze the development of this style and its increasing influence
257. 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.
258. Organum as one of the oldest written types of music. Study the development of this music style throughout various cultures.
259. 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?
260. 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?
261. 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.
262. Is the life of pop stars as easy as people think? Share your thoughts on whether famous musicians and singers have a leisurely lifestyle.
263. Physiological reactions to different types of music. Study how your body reacts to various beats and tones.
264. 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.
265. What does someone’s ringtone say about their personality? Think about how it affects your perception of a person.
266. 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.
267. 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:

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 type	Explanation	Thesis example
Analytical essay	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 The Wall enriched the listener’s experience and created additional meanings.
Expository essay	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.
Argumentative essay	Your aim is to introduce a claim and justify it by using evidence.	David Bowie became one of the most significant musicians of the 20th 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:

Instead, you can formulate it like this:

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:

❌	Don’t simply restate your thesis. Try to paraphrase and analyze it, and add some information from the body paragraphs.
❌	Don’t repeat yourself. You don’t have to fully paraphrase your thesis statement. However, you can mirror it in some way.
❌	Don’t end your essay with a question. It’s like finishing a movie with an unsolved problem. It’s also better to avoid rhetorical questions as they are not specific enough.
❌	Don’t use quotations. 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:

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

🔗 References

1. What is the Music Industry? Definition and Facts: Study.com
2. What Music Do You Write To?: Writers & Artists
3. A Music Review: British Council
4. Music: UNC Writing Center: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
5. Sound and Sense: Writing about Music: Colorado State University
6. Music analysis Research Papers: Academia.edu
7. The Power of Music Therapy: Belmont University
8. Musicology: Northwestern Bienen School of Music
9. Musicology: Areas of Study: Indiana State University
10. Music Facts: Facts.net
11. Music History from Primary Sources: Library of Congress
12. Music: Encyclopedia Britannica
13. A History of Classical Music: Part 1: The List
14. What Is Jazz: Smithsonian Institution
15. The 50 Greatest Composers of All Time: Classical Music
16. Musical Terms and Concepts: SUNY Potsdam
17. Ethnomusicology: University of Oxford
18. Music Research Process: Syracuse University
19. Journal of Popular Music Studies: University of California Press
20. The History of Pop Music in 5 Defining Decades: The Culture Trip
21. Music of the 20^th Century: Lumen Learning
22. Explainer: Indie Music: The Conversation
23. Your Brain on Music: University of Central Florida
24. Music and Health: Harvard University
25. The Psychological Function of Music Listening: NIH
26. Essays that Worked: Hamilton
27. Writing in Music: Writing Thesis Statements: The City University of New York
28. Academic Writing about Music: University of Denver
29. How to Write Song Lyrics: Berklee
30. Essay Introduction: University of Maryland
31. Tips and Examples for Writing Thesis Statements: Purdue University
32. Writing Body Paragraphs: Monash University
33. Some Tips for Writing Efficient, Effective Body Paragraphs: University of California, Berkeley
34. Writing a Paper: Conclusions: Walden University