We say "music" when we mean "recordings." We can buy "sheet music," but it won't play itself. So we acquire recorded performances of that music. Some of these recordings are lousy -- the conductor has an idiosyncratic interpretation that we can't stand; the mix is unlistenable, etc. Some recordings are pleasing. And maybe one is sublime, from performance to pressing. Same "music," different recordings. You want music? Hire a band to play in your capacious listening room. Me, I'll take their magnificent studio recording of that same music.
Audiophilism is a hobby
This post grew out of another discussion on music vs. sound. According to a poll taken in that discussion, it is clear most A’goners claim they listen to their rigs primarily for the music. Although I don’t doubt the truth of that, I maintain that much of the listening is as a hobby, with music being a very important component. I’m not saying we can’t be profoundly moved by the music but rather that a lot of our enjoyment comes from the sheer sound emitted from our speakers. Great music is of course a vital part of the experience, but with all the manipulations we do with our systems, we are fascinated by the idea of sound in itself as a hobby.