program music

Program music is a type of instrumental music composed to evoke a specific idea, story, scene, or mood outside of the music itself. Unlike absolute music, which is appreciated purely for its structure and sound, program music aims to paint a picture or tell a narrative through its melodies, harmonies, and dynamics. Composers often include titles, descriptions, or accompanying texts to guide listeners in understanding the intended imagery or story. Examples include Beethoven's "Pastoral Symphony" or Berlioz's "Symphonie Fantastique," where the music is intentionally crafted to represent particular themes or events.