1. And without music there can be no perfect knowledge, for there is
nothing without it. For even the universe itself is said to have been
put together with a certain harmony of sounds, and the very heavens
revolve under the guidance of harmony. Music rouses the emotions, it
calls the senses to a different quality.
2. In battles, too, the music of the trumpet fires the warriors, and
the more impetuous its loud sound the braver is the spirit for the
fight. Also, song cheers the rowers. For the enduring of labors, too,
music comforts the mind, and singing lightens weariness in solitary
tasks.
3. Music calms overwrought minds also, as is read of David, who by
his skill in playing rescued Saul from an unclean spirit. Even the
very beasts and snakes, birds and dolphins, music calls to hear its
notes. Moreover whatever we say or whatever emotions we feel within
from the beating of our pulses, it is proven that they are brought
into communion with the virtues through the musical rhythms of
harmony.