What is Classical music?

Origin of Classical

Western Europe, broadly 1600-1900. Classical in the strict sense refers to 1750-1820 (Haydn, Mozart, Beethoven). In common usage it covers the entire Western art music tradition from Renaissance polyphony through Romantic symphonism to 20th-century modernism.

Era: 1600--present

Defining sound of Classical

Notated compositions for acoustic instruments (orchestra, chamber ensemble, piano, voice). Form and structure are paramount -- sonata form, fugue, theme and variation. Harmony evolved from modal to tonal to atonal. BPM and texture vary enormously. The conductor or soloist interprets the score.

Pioneers of Classical

• Johann Sebastian Bach
• Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
• Ludwig van Beethoven
• Joseph Haydn
• Franz Schubert

Key Classical artists

• Claude Debussy
• Igor Stravinsky
• Dmitri Shostakovich
• John Adams
• Arvo Part

Related genres

Frequently asked questions about Classical

When did Classical start?

Classical originated 1600--present. Western Europe, broadly 1600-1900.

Who invented Classical?

Classical was pioneered by Johann Sebastian Bach, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Ludwig van Beethoven, Joseph Haydn, Franz Schubert. Western Europe, broadly 1600-1900. Classical in the strict sense refers to 1750-1820 (Haydn, Mozart, Beethoven). In common usage it covers the entire Western art music tradition from Renaissance polyphony through Romantic symphonism to 20th-century modernism.

Is Classical still popular?

Classical continues to be listened to and has influenced countless artists since its origins. Key contemporary artists in the genre include Claude Debussy, Igor Stravinsky, Dmitri Shostakovich, John Adams.

What does Classical sound like?

Notated compositions for acoustic instruments (orchestra, chamber ensemble, piano, voice). Form and structure are paramount -- sonata form, fugue, theme and variation. Harmony evolved from modal to tonal to atonal. BPM and texture vary enormously. The conductor or soloist interprets the score.

What is the difference between Classical and contemporary-classical?

Classical and contemporary-classical are related genres that share some characteristics but differ in origin, instrumentation, and production approach.