Sunday, February 19, 2012

Musical Terms - Classical Music

By Darryl Rozell


Classical Music
"Music, even in situations of the greatest horror, should not be painful to the ear but should flatter and charm it, and thereby always remain music." - Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

One of the oldest forms of music noted for its complex form which requires in-depth knowledge for a person to better appreciate is definitely the classical art of music. Classical music is generally relaxing and enriching to concentrate. Musicians mostly use instruments such as the piano, violin, cello and clarinet to play this music. One must develop excellent musical skills, expertise in the ragas and skill to attain harmony with many other musicians. It calls for one to be able to understand the complex relationship between its well-emphasized emotional progressions.

This background of classical music is usually traced back in the traditions of European art music. It encompasses the initial periods of history around the 11th century, the medieval period to the present.

Let's travel back to the period of dramatic classical music history starting from the Middle Ages, the Renaissance, the Baroque, Classical period to Romantic and the twentieth century. Music dictionary is with you along the journey.

Music in the Middle Ages (Before 1400)
During the Medieval Ages up to the 11th century, the original centers of music were the churches as people focus more on God and religion. Thus, music in this particular period was mostly religious and monophonic- which describes of merely one melodic line without the accompanying instruments. Music in this particular age was predominantly viewed as Gregorian chant. Soon after, towards the end of the dark ages and as civilizations developed, using a couple of melodic line or polyphonic music was introduced. The most known composers of polyphonic music in the medieval age were Leonin and Perotin.

Music inside Renaissance Period (1400-1600)
The Renaissance was a wonderful time that marks the start 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 very influential revival of art, music, literature and learning in Europe which welcomed the truly amazing transition from the medieval to modern civilization. Music turned as a vital element of people's lives. Around 1450, written music became available to everyone and then the middle class gained active participation in this field through playing of musical instruments. This era paved a way for secular music, art songs and madrigals. The creation of harmony gave a different dimension to music.

Music during the Baroque Period (1600-1750)
The Baroque era was really a period within the history of music called the time of dramatic growth and 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 history of European civilization marks the birth of the timeless music that we hear in Theatrical art and inspiration to the growth of music for the succeeding periods. Baroque music is acknowledged for its multi-faceted ornamentation.

Music in the Classical Period (1750-1820)
When you say "Classical Music", you'll likely visualize opera or orchestra music. However, in music history, the term "Classical" actually refers to the music composed from the period 1750 to 1820. The French Revolution as well as the Napoleonic Wars which led to many adjustments in Europe were some of the historical events throughout this age. The music history was remarkably highlighted by the change of the patronage system from Baroque music to people's involvement in public concerts. The music in classical period was notable for the 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 in the duration of music, count of movements as well as the quantity 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 form more songs which are best accompanied by these instruments.

Music during the 20th century (1900-2000)
The arrival of electronic music as well as other technological developments played a huge role about what we now call the 20th century music. From the melodies to the types and styles, nowadays there are no limits to composing music. This is actually the new trend where individuals have all of the freedom to spend time playing high-tech instruments and enjoy the modern age of limitless music. The history of music is actually interesting.

Nowadays, it's easier to learn the past of your favorite music and just how it was created. Should you encounter music terms that appear unfamiliar, don't worry, we'll let you know exactly what they mean. We provide accurate definitions of music terms. Remember, you're already right here on one of the web's most comprehensive online music dictionary.




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