Cultic aspects

No, that is not a typographical error, I mean Cultic and not Celtic. "Classical" music is in some ways analogous to religion. Like religion, music is supposed to contain elements that synthesize Man's natural, animal side with the rational, intellectual side. Culture, like religion, is supposed to bind these two tendencies together. We rise up to humanity through culture. The painting of Liszt at the piano clearly shows this metaphor in action. Beethoven is seen as a god figure, Liszt is the priest, and the listeners are receiving the message of the god mediated by the priest. I'm sure you've all noticed the ritualistic aspects of a modern concert hall from time to time.