Jun 19, 2024
What is Elevator Music?
Explore the fascinating world of elevator music, also known as "Muzak," and its origins from the early 20th century.
Yaro
19/06/2024 12:57 PMWhat is Elevator Music?
Elevator music, commonly referred to as "Muzak," serves as a background audio experience designed to create a soothing atmosphere in various public spaces. The origins of this genre can be traced back to the early 20th century, specifically to George Owen Squier, an Army general and inventor who founded Wired Radio, which later became known as Muzak. Squier's initial aim was to enhance productivity in factories by using music to influence workers' moods and emotions. He developed a technique called "Stimulus Progression," where music would gradually increase in tempo and volume to maintain listener engagement without causing fatigue.
By the 1930s, elevator music found its primary application in elevators, which were perceived as novel and potentially anxiety-inducing experiences for many. The calming background music was introduced to alleviate the stress associated with riding in elevators, especially as they became more automated and less reliant on attendants. This practice quickly spread to other environments, including shopping malls, hotels, and offices, where it aimed to create a pleasant atmosphere and encourage consumer spending by reducing tension and anxiety.
Elevator music is characterized by its instrumental nature, often featuring soft melodies derived from popular or classical music, performed by orchestras or created using computer algorithms. While it peaked in popularity during the 1970s, its influence persists today, often used in commercial settings to enhance customer experiences and maintain a relaxed ambiance.
Despite its intended purpose, elevator music has garnered a reputation for being bland or unremarkable, often associated with low-quality production. This perception has led to some criticism, with groups advocating for the reduction of piped music in public spaces, citing that it can detract from the enjoyment of patrons. Nonetheless, elevator music continues to play a significant role in shaping the auditory environment of modern public spaces, reflecting broader societal trends and consumer behaviors.
Example of Elevator music
Characteristics of Elevator Music
Typically, elevator music is characterized by:
- Instrumental Focus: Most tracks are instrumental, avoiding lyrics to maintain a relaxing ambiance.
- Low BPM: The tempo is generally slow, contributing to a tranquil environment.
- Genre Blending: It often incorporates elements from various genres, including classical, jazz, and new-age music, creating a blend that is both familiar and unobtrusive.
Evolution and Current Usage
Elevator music has evolved significantly over the years. While it still exists in elevators, its application has broadened to include:
- Public Transport: Airports, train stations, and buses use this music to alleviate the stress of travel.
- Commercial Spaces: Retail environments, hotel lobbies, and restaurants utilize elevator music to enhance the overall experience and encourage customer engagement.
- Workplaces: Offices and waiting rooms often play this music to create a calming atmosphere and mask background noise.
- Telephone Systems: When on hold, callers frequently listen to elevator music, which serves to ease the waiting experience.
Popularity and Accessibility
While elevator music may not reach mainstream popularity, certain tracks can become iconic within specific contexts. For instance, the elevator music featured in the Roblox game "Doors" has gained a following, illustrating how this genre can transcend its traditional boundaries and resonate with younger audiences.
In summary, elevator music remains a relevant and versatile genre that has adapted to modern tastes and environments, continuing to serve its purpose of enhancing ambiance and reducing stress in various settings.