Which of the following activities is useful for building music appreciation skills?

Building music appreciation skills involves developing an understanding and a deeper enjoyment of various musical styles and traditions. Engaging in the activity of comparing musical genres allows individuals to explore differences and similarities in elements such as rhythm, melody, instrumentation, cultural background, and emotional expression. This comparative analysis fosters a broader understanding of music as an art form and enhances the listener's ability to appreciate various works beyond their initial preferences.

In comparison, writing music compositions, analyzing lyrics, and participating in ensemble performances, while beneficial in their own right, focus on different aspects of music. Writing compositions emphasizes creativity and personal expression, analyzing lyrics centers on textual elements and storytelling, and ensemble performances highlight collaboration and technical skills. While each contributes to a well-rounded musical education, comparing musical genres specifically targets the development of appreciation and critical listening skills.