While theory is the method of communication most used by musicians, a performance or cleverly written composition requires the knowledge of musical styles, interpretation, and various other subtle nuances that are best learned by observing other musicians and their work. These observations which make a performance or composition complete are best learned through the study of history. It is often said that in order to see where you are going, you must look at where you have been, the study of history is based on the same ideology. Through the study of history a performer or composer is able to fully understand the techniques used in a performance or composition and therefore is better able to adapt them in their own work or interpretation. As the music that society listens to evolves with society itself, the ability to modify or borrow these traditional stylistic elements is what enables music to continue to evolve. The study of history and how it relates to music is yet another avenue for the performer and/or composer to further develop and perfect their performance, composition, artistic vision, and art.