Saturday, February 18, 2012

Musical Terms - Classical Music

By Darryl Rozell


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 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 past of classical music can be traced back in the traditions of European art music. It encompasses the original 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 until the 11th century, the earliest 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 the single melodic line without the accompanying instruments. Music in this particular age was predominantly described as Gregorian chant. Soon after, towards the end of the middle ages and as civilizations developed, using many melodic line or polyphonic music was introduced. The most notable composers of polyphonic music within the medieval age were Leonin and Perotin.

Music within Renaissance Period (1400-1600)
The Renaissance was a great time and marked 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 extremely influential revival of art, music, literature and learning in Europe which welcomed the great transition from the medieval to modern civilization. Music turned out as a vital part of people's lives. Around 1450, sheet music became open to everyone and the middle class gained active participation on this field through playing of musical instruments. This period paved a way for secular music, art songs and madrigals. The introduction of harmony gave a new dimension to music.

Music inside Baroque Period (1600-1750)
The Baroque era was a period in the history of music called the period of dramatic growth and development of knowledge. This was the era of the 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 growth of music for the succeeding time. Baroque music is recognized for its multi-faceted ornamentation.

Music inside Classical Period (1750-1820)
When you say "Classical Music", you will likely imagine 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 and the Napoleonic Wars which ended to many adjustments in Europe were 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 convey themselves. Instrumental and vocal music became popular. There was clearly more freedom to the length of music, count of movements as well as the amount of instruments played and voices used. The Romantic period opened doors for band instruments and innovation of brass and woodwind instruments that are popular today. These remarkable advancements pushed composers to produce more songs which are best accompanied by these instruments.

Music during the 20th century (1900-2000)
The advent of electronic music as well as other technological developments played a vital role to what we now call the 20th century music. From the melodies to the types and styles, now there are no limits to composing music. This is the new trend where individuals have the freedom to play high-tech instruments and enjoy the modern age of limitless music. The historical past 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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