Your litmus test for art relies on a definition from... Rush Limbaugh..? Powerful art is primarily experiential; perceived effort is irrelevant if the work move

Your litmus test for art relies on a definition from... Rush Limbaugh..? Powerful art is primarily experiential; perceived effort is irrelevant if the work moves you. I suspect Rush ignores an infinity of small, everyday beauties if his definition of art is so limited. Or perhaps he has a vested interest in maintaining the value of his collection. ;) Beauty is absolutely subjective and does not conform to Western or Eastern standards. Melody, harmony, rhythm, and dissonance - or lack thereof - can all be manipulated to great effect outside of their established roles. Silence can be beautiful. Passive listening can be beautiful. Could one then suggest that these elements be used as the basis for an expanded definition and appreciation of music? As a fellow ardent listener I implore you to explore beyond the confines of the dominant modes of musical expression - there is a vast, wondrous world of sound and experience that awaits.