Final answer:
Small musical units within larger music cultures are known as subcultures, characterized by unique identities and musical styles influenced by various factors like geography and ethnicity. These subcultures contribute to the diversity of music and are shaped by the sociocultural environments in which individuals grow up.
Step-by-step explanation:
Small musical units within big music cultures are often referred to as subcultures. These subcultures maintain unique identities and musical expressions while still forming part of the larger musical culture. These identities often stem from different factors, such as geography, ethnicity, and social environments, that influence the musical styles and preferences of the individuals within these smaller groups.
The basic unit of music comprises specific names, and when combined, these units generate tunes. The number and relative intensity of multiple frequencies contribute to the unique sound of a music piece. For example, folk music, which is part of a larger musical culture, often uses lightweight, homemade instruments or a capella singing shaped by the musicians' sociocultural context.
A subculture not only reflects a smaller group within a larger culture but also contributes to the larger tapestry of music by bringing in diversity and unique traditions, such as those evident in punk music. Moreover, appreciation for music largely depends on the sociocultural environment that one is raised in, which influences the range of musical interests and genres a person may be exposed to over their lifetime.