Remembered Music by Rumi

'Tis Said the pipe and lute that charm our ears
Derive their melody from rolling spheres;
But faith, over passing speculation's bounds
Can see what sweetens every jangled sound.

We, who are parts of Adam, heard with him
 The songs of angels and of seraphim
Our memory, though dull and sad,
Retains some echo still of those unearthly strains.

Oh, music is the meat of all who love,
Musis uplifts the soul to realms above
The ashes glow, the latent fires increase,
We listen and are fed with joy and peace.

Rumi (1207-1273) Saint and Mystic, Founder of the Mehievi Order of Whirling Dervishes
Translated by R.A. Nicholson

Pipes and lutes do charm people's ears, as do other instruments.  But as Rumi seems to indicate, the musical inspirations originate from something deeper than the stars. It is the memory of the songs of angels and seraphims from of old.

For many, music does contain a religiously inspired dimension. Music can be inspired by a deep religious belief as well as be an expression of religious faith. Sometimes, a piece of music can cause a religious or conversion experience. A congregant identifies with the words of a hymn or the somberness of a requiem. The music captivates the listener's heart and soul and the person transcends to another realm. It is almost a mystical communion.  Just as many medieval mystics were fed by holy communion or prayer with God, the listener is fed by the music emotionally and spiritually as well as physically. When the musical experience has ended, the listener leaves nourished, satisfied, and swelling with joy.