What Was Classical Music Called Back Then?
Classical music, as it is commonly known today, refers to the art music of the Western world. It is a genre that is distinguished from Western folk music or popular music traditions. The term “classical music” can also be applied to non-Western art musics. In this article, we will explore the historical development of classical music and how it came to be known by this name.
Terminology and Definition
The term “classical music” is a broad and encompassing label for a wide range of musical styles and periods. It generally refers to the music created within the Western musical tradition. This tradition is rooted in the art music of Western Europe and has been shaped by centuries of cultural exchange and development.
Classical music is characterized by its complexity, structure, and adherence to established forms. It is often composed for orchestras, choirs, and instrumental ensembles, and it is known for its emphasis on instrumental and vocal techniques, harmony, and melody.
It is important to note that the term “classical music” can also be used to describe non-Western art musics, such as Indian classical music or Chinese classical music. In these contexts, the term refers to the classical traditions of those specific regions.
Historical Development
The history of classical music can be traced back to the patronage of churches and royal courts in Western Europe. Early medieval music, which dates back to the 9th century, was predominantly religious, monophonic (consisting of a single melodic line), and vocal. It drew influences from ancient Greek and Roman music, as well as the traditions of the Byzantine Empire.
The Renaissance period, spanning from the 14th to the 17th century, witnessed significant developments in musical notation and composition. Staff notation, with its system of lines and symbols, allowed for more precise representation of pitch and rhythm. During this period, composers explored organized rhythms and polyphony (the combination of multiple melodic lines).
The Baroque period, from the late 16th to the early 18th century, marked the standardization of common-practice tonality and the rise of instrumental music. Prominent composers of this period include Johann Sebastian Bach, George Frideric Handel, and Antonio Vivaldi.
The Classical period, which emerged in the mid-18th century, brought forth composers like Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Joseph Haydn, and Ludwig van Beethoven. These composers created symphonies, string quartets, concertos, and other forms that became staples of the classical repertoire.
The Romantic period, spanning from the early 19th to the early 20th century, saw a shift towards programmatic music, where composers aimed to depict specific narratives or emotions through their compositions. This period also witnessed the rise of virtuosity and nationalism in music, with composers like Franz Schubert, Frédéric Chopin, and Richard Wagner leaving lasting legacies.
The 20th century brought about various stylistic movements within classical music. It encompassed modernism, with composers like Igor Stravinsky pushing the boundaries of traditional tonality and form. It also witnessed the incorporation of folk-inspired melodies, as seen in the works of Béla Bartók and Ralph Vaughan Williams, as well as the impressionistic compositions of Claude Debussy and Maurice Ravel.
Throughout its history, classical music has continued to evolve and adapt to the changing cultural and artistic landscape. It remains a rich and diverse genre that encompasses a vast range of styles, periods, and influences.
Sources:
- Music Fans Stack Exchange: What was classical music called back in the days?
- Wikipedia: Classical music
- Classic FM: Why do we call classical music ‘classical music’?
FAQs
What Was Classical Music Called Back Then?
What is classical music?
Classical music refers to the art music of the Western world, characterized by its complexity, structure, and adherence to established forms. It encompasses a wide range of musical styles and periods.
How did classical music develop historically?
Classical music has its roots in the patronage of churches and royal courts in Western Europe. It evolved from early medieval music, through the Renaissance, Baroque, Classical, Romantic, and into the 20th century, witnessing various stylistic movements and innovations along the way.
What distinguishes classical music from other genres?
Classical music is distinguished from Western folk music or popular music traditions. It is generally composed for orchestras, choirs, and instrumental ensembles, and is known for its emphasis on instrumental and vocal techniques, harmony, and melody.
Was classical music always called “classical music”?
No, the term “classical music” as we know it today is a relatively recent development. It became widely used as an umbrella term for Western instrumental, orchestral, vocal, and choral music to distinguish it from other genres.
What were the earlier names or terms used for classical music?
Before the term “classical music” came into common usage, earlier names or terms used for this genre varied depending on the time period. For example, during the Baroque period, it was often referred to as “baroque music,” while during the Classical period, it was simply known as “music” or “serious music.”
Why did classical music come to be known as “classical”?
The term “classical” was derived from the Latin word “classicus,” meaning “belonging to the highest class or rank.” It was originally used to describe the literature and art of ancient Greece and Rome, which were considered to be of the highest order. Over time, the term “classical” was applied to the music of the Western world as a way to convey its perceived timeless and enduring qualities.
Is classical music called the same in non-Western traditions?
No, the term “classical music” can also be applied to non-Western art musics, such as Indian classical music or Chinese classical music. In these contexts, the term refers to the classical traditions of those specific regions.
How has classical music evolved over time?
Classical music has continuously evolved and adapted to the changing cultural and artistic landscape. It has seen shifts in style, technique, and composition, embracing new forms, tonalities, and influences throughout its history.