Referentialism refers to which idea?

• A. The idea that music refers to external ideas or symbols
• B. The idea that music expresses internal emotional states
• C. Music is random
• D. Music is solely about rhythm and timing

Answer: (A)

Referentialism is the idea that music can function as a sign that refers to things outside the sound itself—external ideas, symbols, stories, or cultural meanings associated with the music. So describing music as referring to external ideas or symbols captures that sense, making it the best fit. This contrasts with the view that music mainly expresses internal emotional states, which focuses on moods or feelings rather than external referents. It also isn’t about randomness or reducing music to rhythm and timing, which miss the aspect of pointing to something beyond the audible surface.