What kind of music do buddhist listen to?

Answer 1

It depends on which Buddhists, and it depends on which country: not all Buddhists practice their religion the same way, and not all Buddhists like the same kind of music. For example, American Buddhists are accustomed to the popular music of the US and unless they are studying to be monks or nuns, they are generally not forbidden from listening to the latest hits, or enjoying popular culture. But when it comes to religious services, many American Buddhists use sacred music, such as singing songs that praise the Buddha or chanting verses from their scriptures. To cite one example, Nichiren Shoshu Buddhists rhythmically chant verses from the Lotus Sutra, especially "Nam myoho renge kyo." Also, most Buddhists practice a form of silent meditation; others might have some soft religious music, such as a chant, in the background.

But in other countries, Buddhists listen to the music that is common to that particular culture, as well as listening to the religious music of their country. For example, Tibetan Buddhists have musical chants that are used during their religious services; sometimes, the rhythm is kept on a drum or by using a bell; in India, you might also hear percussion played on finger-cymbals. There are many religious hymns and songs that praise the Buddha, and these are sung in a number of Buddhist countries (Thailand, Laos, Myanmar, Tibet, etc). But as I said, it varies from place to place; what Buddhists listen to when they are not at the temple depends on whether the Buddhist community in that place embraces or rejects popular culture.

Answer 2

Yes. I am a Buddhist and I listen to music all the time.