1. Live Performances: Attending live concerts, recitals, or musical performances was the primary means of listening to music. Musicians and performers would travel from town to town or perform in venues such as theaters or concert halls.
2. Street Musicians: Street musicians played instruments and sang in public places, such as streets, town squares, or markets, for entertainment and to earn money.
3. Music in the Home: People would own musical instruments and play music at home for personal enjoyment or as part of social gatherings. Instruments such as pianos, guitars, violins, and flutes were common household items.
4. Musical Gatherings: Communities often organized music gatherings where individuals would come together to sing, play instruments, and dance. These gatherings could be impromptu or organized events.
5. Musical Societies and Clubs: Some towns and cities had musical societies or clubs where musicians and music enthusiasts met regularly to play music, share their passion for music, and organize performances.
6. Itinerant Musicians: In rural areas, traveling musicians would visit towns and villages and perform for the locals. They often relied on donations or payment from the audience.
7. Military Bands: Military bands played an essential role in military celebrations, ceremonies, and parades.
8. Music in Religious Services: Music was an integral part of religious services, from singing hymns and psalms in churches to playing instruments during rituals in other faiths.
9. Music in Theaters: Theater productions often included musical elements, such as musical interludes, songs, or instrumental pieces.
10. Dance Halls and Ballrooms: Dance halls and ballrooms provided spaces for people to gather and dance to live music played by bands, orchestras, or popular musicians.
It is important to note that the availability and accessibility of music varied depending on the region, social class, and historical period.