The power of music, beyond that derived from its mere execution, is
greatly influenced by the amount of electricity infused into the sounds
by the performer; and in our planet the human voice has often been known
to soothe, and sometimes to restore, a disordered brain, by awakening
the powers of some dormant division, when the electricity accompanying
the sounds is sympathetic with the light in the brain of the listener.
The human voice, other things being equal, is more electrical than
sounds from musical instruments; for in the one case the emanations of
light come direct from the living singer, whilst in the latter instance
the electricity coming from the executant passes by contact with the
instrument, and is thus transmitted through an intermediate conductor.
The beauty and effect of many of our musical instruments, and
particularly of the harp, are greatly increased by the application of
electricity.
A skilful executant on our harp can assuage the passions of a
multitude,--nay, he can excite many of the aspirations and sensibilities
ascribed in your legends to Orpheus and other mythical personages.
It is thought in Montalluyah,--though it was never demonstrated,--that a
modification of concentrated light forms the point of union between the
immortal soul and the perishable portions of man.