What is simple in music?

Music is a vast and complex field, but there are several aspects that can be considered "simple" in the sense that they form the foundational elements upon which more complex music is built. Simplicity in music can be approached from various angles, including the structure of time signatures, the use of basic chords and scales, the repetition of patterns, and the accessibility of the music to both listeners and performers. Let's delve into these aspects one by one.

Time Signatures and Rhythms:
The reference you provided touches on the simplicity of time signatures. In music, a time signature indicates the number of beats in a measure and the type of note that gets one beat. Simple time signatures, such as 4/4 (known as common time) or 3/4 (waltz time), are the most straightforward because they divide the beat into two parts, which aligns with the natural human pulse. This makes counting and playing in these time signatures more intuitive.

Chords and Harmonies:
Another aspect of simplicity in music is the use of basic chords. Major and minor chords are the building blocks of many songs and are relatively easy to understand and play. They are derived from scales, which are sequences of notes that form the basis of melodies and harmonies. The simplicity of these chords lies in their predictability and the emotional responses they evoke, which are familiar to many listeners.

Melodic Structures:
Melodies often follow simple patterns that are easy to remember and sing along to. Catchy tunes often have a repetitive structure, which is a key to their memorability. The simplicity of a melody can be found in its phrasing, where short, repeated motifs are used to create a recognizable and pleasing tune.

Lyrics and Themes:
Lyrics can also contribute to the simplicity of a song. Songs with straightforward, relatable themes and clear, uncomplicated lyrics can be easier for listeners to connect with. The use of simple, direct language can make a song more accessible and emotionally resonant.

Instrumentation:
The choice of instruments and the way they are used can also affect the simplicity of a piece. Music that uses a limited number of instruments or focuses on a single instrument can feel more straightforward and less cluttered. Solo performances or small ensembles often showcase the simplicity of music by highlighting the individual contributions of each performer.

Form and Structure:
Musical forms such as verse-chorus-verse (VCV) or the AABA structure are common in many genres and are considered simple because they are easy to follow. These forms provide a predictable framework that can be easily grasped by the listener, enhancing the overall accessibility of the music.

Accessibility and Performance:
Finally, the simplicity of a piece of music can be judged by how easily it can be performed by musicians of varying skill levels. Pieces that require less technical skill to play are often more accessible to amateur musicians and can be enjoyed by a wider audience.

In conclusion, simplicity in music is not about a lack of depth or complexity but rather about the clarity of expression and the ease with which music can be understood and appreciated by both the performer and the listener. It's about creating a connection through the universal language of music that transcends barriers of culture and sophistication.

Simple: With simple time signatures, the beat of a piece of music can be broken down into two-part rhythms. Simple time signatures are the easiest to count, because a one-two pulse in a piece of music feels the most natural to a listener and a performer.