Classical
Music
“Music,
even in situations of the greatest horror, should never be painful to the ear
but should flatter and charm it, and thereby always remain music.” - Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
One of the oldest types of music known for its complex form which
requires in-depth knowledge for a person to better appreciate is the classical
art of music. Classical music is very relaxing and enriching to listen.
Musicians mostly use instruments such as the piano, violin, cello and clarinet
to play this music. One has to develop excellent musical skills, knowledge of
the ragas and ability to attain harmony with other musicians. It involves the
ability to understand the complex relationship between its well-emphasized emotional
progressions.
This history of classical music can be traced back to the
traditions of European art music. It encompasses the earliest periods of
history around the 11th century, the medieval period to the present.
Let’s travel back to the time of dramatic classical music history from
the Middle Ages, the Renaissance, the Baroque, Classical period to the Romantic
and the 20th century. Music dictionary will help you along the
journey.
Music in
the Middle Ages (Before 1400)
During the Medieval Ages until the 11th century, the
earliest centers of music were the churches as people focus more on God and
religion. Thus, music in this period was mostly religious and monophonic- which describes of a single
melodic line without the accompanying instruments. Music in this age was
predominantly characterized by Gregorian chant. Later on, towards the end of
the middle ages and as civilizations developed, the use of more than one
melodic line or polyphonic music was
introduced. The most notable composers of polyphonic music in the medieval age were
Leonin and Perotin.
Music in
the Renaissance Period (1400-1600)
The Renaissance was a great time and marks the beginning of booming
advances in world history. From Christopher Columbus’ famous discovery of the
New World to Shakespeare’s distinguished poetry and plays, all created
highlights of the most influential revival of art, music, literature and
learning in Europe which welcomed the great transition from the medieval to
modern civilization. Music turned as a vital part of people’s lives. Around
1450, sheet music was made accessible to everyone and the middle class gained
active participation in this field through playing of musical instruments. This
period paved the way for secular music, art songs and madrigals. The
introduction of harmony gave a new
dimension to music.
Music in
the Baroque Period (1600-1750)
The Baroque era was a period in the history of music which is known
as the period of dramatic development of knowledge. This was the age of
spectacular scientific discoveries of Galileo, mathematical advances of Newton
and Philosophical innovations of Descartes. This important time in the period
of European civilization marks the birth of the timeless music that we hear in
Theatrical art and inspiration to the development of music for the succeeding
periods. Baroque music is known for its multi-faceted ornamentation.
Music in the
Classical Period (1750-1820)
When we say “Classical Music”, we often think of opera or orchestra
music. However, in music history, the word “Classical “actually refers to the
music composed from the period 1750 to 1820. The French Revolution and the
Napoleonic Wars which led to many changes in Europe were just some of the historical
events during this age. The music history was remarkably highlighted by the
change of the patronage system of Baroque music to people’s interest in public
concerts. The music in classical period was notable for its balance and
structure that signalled the birth of absolute
music in which classical works were mostly performed in concert halls and
stages.
Music in the
Romantic Period (1820-1910)
The Romantic period was marked by emotional, programmatic and
expressive music. Composers developed new musical forms to express themselves.
Instrumental and vocal music became popular. There was more freedom to the
length of music, count of movements and the number of instruments played and
voices used. The Romantic period opened doors for band instruments and
innovation of brass and woodwind instruments which made them more popular
today. These remarkable advancements pushed composers to create more songs that
are best played with these instruments.
Music in
the 20th century (1900-2000)
The advent of electronic music along with other technological
developments played a huge role to what we now call the 20th century
music. From the melodies to the types and styles, there are now no limits to
composing music. This is the new era where people have all the freedom to play high-tech
instruments and enjoy the new age of limitless music. The history of music is
truly interesting.
Nowadays, it’s easier to know the history of your favorite music and
how it was composed. If you encounter music terms that seem unfamiliar, don’t
worry, we’ll let you know what they mean. We can provide you accurate
definitions of music terms. Remember, you’re already right here on one of the
web’s most comprehensive online music dictionary.
iMusic Dictionary is the most comprehensive online music dictionary. Covering musical terms such as classical music, jazz music, rock music and more.
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