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I have found in this standard theory of linguistics a helpful model for the understanding and teaching of the musical language. "Phoneme" can refer to the most fundamental aspects of sound and sound production.This can "morph"to create certain basics like rudiments, scales and other simple patterns.When these elements are grouped together within formal rules, counterpoint and orchestration, they make up a musical "syntax." Finally, the way in which this music is created or perceived within the larger context–what others have done and are doing–will determine a more profound meaning. This is "semantic."