Abstract

The purpose of this work is to introduce the writings of composer and music critic Virgil Thomson to the discourse of philosophy of music. It is divided into four main parts. Part one is an introduction and biographical sketch of Thomson. Part two is a discussion of his views on the metaphysics of music as discussed in his article “Music Does Not Flow” as well as a discussion of the philosophical questions raised by his practice of writing “musical portraits”. This serves as a preliminary to part three, as well as covering topics important to contemporary philosophy of music that are not discussed effectively elsewhere in his writings. Part three is a summary of Thomson’s book The State of Music and a discussion of its philosophically interesting aspects. These consist of (1) Describing the arts as cultural practices and carried out by specialists and professionals (2) Describing all musical activities as explainable by economic determinism, and (3) Emphasizing the benefits of professional solidarity for musicians and autonomy for music as a cultural institution. Finally, part four is an assessment of the accuracy and value of Thomson’s views of music taken as a whole. This will involve a discussion of the truth and usefulness of (1), (2), and (3), as well the views summarized in part two. Part four will culminate in a discussion of Thomson’s place in the history of philosophy of music, and also discuss some criticisms one might have of his views