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 famous for its complex form which requires in-depth knowledge for an individual to better appreciate is the classical art of music. Classical music is extremely relaxing and enriching to pay attention. Musicians mostly use instruments including the piano, violin, cello and clarinet to play this music. One has to develop excellent musical skills, knowledge of the ragas and skill to attain harmony along with other musicians. It calls for you to be aware of 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 during the Baroque Period (1600-1750)

The Baroque era has been a period in the history of music t called the time of dramatic development of knowledge. This is 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 people hear in Theatrical art and inspiration to the progression of music for the succeeding periods. Baroque music is known 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 in the 20th century (1900-2000)

The advent of electronic music together with other technological developments played a crucial role to what we now call the twentieth century music. From the melodies to the types and styles, there are now no limits to composing music. This is actually a new era where individuals have all of the freedom to spend time playing high-tech instruments and enjoy the modern age of limitless music. The story of music is truly interesting.

Nowadays, it's easier to know the past of your favorite music and the ways in which it was composed. Should you encounter music terms that appear unfamiliar, don't worry, we'll show you 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.