Definition

1. Noun:
   • Traditional genre of music conforming to an established form and appealing to critical interest and developed musical taste: A broad category of art music rooted in the traditions of Western culture, generally characterized by structured forms, complex harmonies, and instrumental composition, often written down in musical notation. It is distinct from popular, folk, or commercial music genres.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • She prefers listening to classical music while she studies.
  • The concert hall is renowned for its performances of classical music from the Baroque and Romantic periods.
  • Studying classical music requires an understanding of music theory and history.

Advanced Usage

• The term "classical music" is often used to refer specifically to the music of the Classical period (approximately 1750-1820), exemplified by composers like Mozart and Haydn. However, in common and broader academic usage, it encompasses music from the Medieval, Renaissance, Baroque, Classical, Romantic, and Modern eras.
• "To have a classical music background": To have training or education in this genre.
  • The pianist has a strong classical music background, which influences her jazz improvisations.

Variants and Related Words

• Classical (adj): Of or relating to the ancient Greek and Roman world, its literature, art, or culture; or, conforming to established forms and principles of art, especially music.
  • He is a classical violinist.
• Classicism (n): The following of traditional and long-established theories or styles, especially in art and literature.
• Orchestral Music (n): Music written for and performed by an orchestra, which is a core ensemble for much classical music.
• Chamber Music (n): A form of classical music composed for a small group of instruments, traditionally intended for performance in a room or small hall.

Synonyms

• Art Music: Music created with advanced structural and theoretical considerations, intended for serious listening.
• Serious Music: A somewhat dated term used to contrast with popular or light music.
• Concert Music: Music intended for performance in a concert setting.

Related Phrases

• Classical repertoire: The body of music that is standard for a performer or ensemble within the classical tradition.
  • She is expanding her classical repertoire to include contemporary works.
• Classical composer: A writer of classical music.
  • Beethoven is a pivotal classical composer.

Noun

1. traditional genre of music conforming to an established form and appealing to critical interest and developed musical taste