Final answer:
Program music links sound to a narrative or image to provide meaning to the music; it contrasts with absolute music, which does not refer to external stories or images. Music is considered a universal language due to its ability to express and evoke emotions across cultures without the need for words. The structure of music includes elements like rhythm and melody, which differentiate it from mere sound.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term for music that is intentionally designed to connect sounds to a narrative or visual image to give the music meaning is called program music. Unlike absolute music, which is meant to be appreciated without any external reference to a story or image, program music aims to enhance a listener's experience by relating to a narrative, scene, or idea. This storytelling aspect can make the listening experience more immersive and emotionally compelling. Common examples of program music include orchestral works like symphonic poems and program symphonies, which often have titles or accompanying texts that suggest the narrative or imagery associated with the music.
When people refer to music as the universal language, it is often because music has the power to convey emotions and connect with listeners across different cultures and languages. Music, unlike sound which can be just a noise, is organized in a structured way that can include rhythm, melody, and harmony, making it a form of expression that can be understood and felt universally. Music can serve as a powerful communication tool as it can induce laughter, tears, contemplation, and questioning, exemplifying its role as a unifying human experience.
Moreover, music is not only capable of evoking responses through its intrinsic elements but also when used in contexts, such as in films or live performances. Music can cement itself as a cultural universal through its ability to convey stories and enhance narratives, regardless of where or by whom it is heard.