With music, according to Patel, A. D. (2008), an individual can choose to communicate across different linguistic boundaries or cultures. This is not possible with ordinary language. As a result, I tend to agree that music is a universal language. Many may not understand the lyrics of foreign songs, but we all share the same emotions when we hear similar chords and melodies (Ockelford, 2013). Based on emotions, individuals can easily detect the various emotions allied to new music idioms and the beats conveyed. It is worthwhile noting that high pitch, more fluctuation in pitch and rhythm as well as faster tempo conveys happiness while the opposite conveys sadness (Bannan, 2012).
The term universal describes something for every individual. When music is universal, according to Ockelford (2013), it has no limitations or exceptions based on geographical boundaries. Accordingly, when a product or service is universal, it becomes ubiquitous because all people in the world can access it. More so, everyone has a right to enjoy its benefits. On the other hand, language is the system of words or signs that people use to express thoughts and feelings to each other. Human language has the properties of productivity, recursively, and displacement of emotions, and relies entirely on social convention and learning.
Therefore, after exploring the meaning of the word universal and language, I still feel that music is a universal language. According to Bannan (2012), music brings people together irrespective of religion, culture, or race. With music, no barriers exist. More so, people can relate to all music regardless of the genre. It is also worthwhile noting that music enhances peace among people because it helps create friends.
References
Bannan, N. (2012). Music, language, and human evolution. Oxford: Oxford University Press.
Ockelford, A. (2013). Music, language and autism: Exceptional strategies for exceptional minds. London: Jessica Kingsley Publishers.
Patel, A. D. (2008). Music, language, and the brain. Oxford: Oxford University Press.