Well, I guess one has to believe to some degree in metaphysics to be where I am coming from re music and its effects. The so-called New Age co-opted some very ancient mystical principles, which because I've studied the scientific basis for them, to me have significance and meaning.

Knowing a language or not makes no difference to me, what I hear and feel in my heart, are the tones of the music, whether it is that of Sctland, ireland, Wales, or England, Venezuela, Japan, etc. If one lets their intellect take over, analyzing, instead of listening in an opne uncritical manner, one can miss out on some of the most beneficial effects of the music itself.

It is important, to me at least, that we not generalise, not only in music, but also when speaking of mysticism or spirituality.

As for inspiration without understanding: do we have to know the intricacies of fine painting in order to be inspired by the paintings of the Sistine Chapel? Must we understand the words or the theory that goes into composing a great opera such as Mozart's The Magic Flute to be inspired by it gracious and transcendent tones?

Pythagoras wrote much about the seven intervals and power of music. The ancient civilisations of China believed and taught about the power of music, even decreeing certain tunings from year to year in order to be in harmony with the natural and divine world.

While I would never say one type of music over another had specific power for any one person, I would say that for myself and those I know well and love, who are close to me. Great healing can come with music as a facilitator; helping the patient to focus, be calm, uplifting their consciousness. If many people are now turning to "Celtic" music for this kind of positive feeling, why be so cynical or paranoid about it? The only reason I could see for alarm is in the instance Jeri cited re' the KKK.

I am surprised at some of the reactions in this thread. Being phoakies, I thought, most everyone would appreciate, from first-hand experience, how powerful music can be. I understand the derision about marketing and the traditional being overrun by the pseudo-Celtic, but that should not preclude the real effects of the music itself.

I know we are all mature enough to agree to disagree. Just thought there were some broad-based generalisations and assumptions made about us mystics/metaphysicians. We are not all "new age" and some of our traditions are ancient.

Thanks for listening.

katlaughingunabashedly