There are many different types of music in the world today, Why do we need music? Is the traditional music of a country more important than the international music that is heard every where nowadays?

Music plays vital role in development and creativity of our mind. Its popularity among people has contributed towards its diversity. However, international music is more famous nowadays, but I feel traditional music has more significance than earlier due to its diversity and flavour.

          To begin with, it is generally argued that traditional music has laid foundation for other forms of music. Initially, people started to sing and dance with limited knowledge of tones and musical instruments, owing to the fact that they have taken first step to produce and improve level of music. For example- Early Indian settlers started singing only tones, which further have been added with words.

         Secondly, supporters of the traditional music believe that diversity of traditional music plays a crucial role in its evolution and development. Every folk music has place for all aspects of life i.e. Birth, festivals, engagement, marriage, day to day events, demise, hope, love and nature etc. Such diversity also reflects richness of culture and customs. For instance, In Indian festival called, “Holi” people used to have bonfire and offers prayers in a pleasant rhythmic way, Furthermore, developing it into a complete musical and colourful event.

         Thirdly, it is widely held that traditional music helps to thwart our true ancestral identity. Folk music represents and maintains our cultural values and identity. It teaches next generation about the importance and influence of our beliefs. This can be illustrated by an example overseas born generation of Indian origin. Non resident Indian’s widely enjoy their festival and cultural music which in turn teaches their next generation about their roots.

           In contrast, opponents of traditional music argue that traditional music is limited to some languages and cultures. Its language provides resistance to people from all over the world. However, international music has no boundaries; majority of English speaking people enjoys it. As a result, International music has become more famous and acceptable.

           To sum up, traditional music has social, cultural and ancestral importance which makes it stand out from the crowd. After considering every aspect, I would like to reiterate that folk music is as important as international, music in order to preserve our original identity.