Is Recent Music Considered as Classical?
The term 'classical music' is often misused and misunderstood, leading to debates about whether recent music can be classified as classical. This article aims to clarify the concept and explore the evolving nature of classical music in the modern era.
Historical Context and Modern Usage
Most professional musicians and scholars refer to nearly all Western art music, from Gregorian chant to contemporary pieces, as 'classical music' unless the context specifically dictates otherwise. The musical period categorically known as the 'Classical' period, marked by works from the late 18th and early 19th centuries, is distinguished with a capital 'C' to denote its unique characteristics.
Some individuals argue that it is ignorant to generally refer to all of this music as 'classical.' However, these critics often lack a background in music and are misperceived as nitpickers. In reality, many accomplished musicians embrace the term 'classical music' with clarity and enthusiasm, as it transcends time and genre.
Modern Composers and Their Contributions
Contemporary composers have pushed the boundaries of classical music, creating works that often demand a place in the classical section of music stores. Notable examples include Paul McCartney, who has composed an orchestral work, the Liverpool Oratorio, and Keith Emerson, who has written a piano concerto. Andrew Lloyd Webber, a prominent operatic composer, has also produced a Requiem, adding to the rich tapestry of modern classical music.
These examples illustrate that 'classical music' remains vibrant and dynamic, integrating modern techniques and themes with traditional structures and forms. The term 'classical music' has evolved to encompass a broad spectrum of compositions, from ancient pieces to contemporary works.
Flexible Definitions and Evolving Terminology
The definition of 'classical music' varies depending on the context and the listener's perspective. Traditionally, 'classical music' is associated with the period from around 1750 to 1810, a time that saw significant musical advancements. However, the term has expanded to include compositions from the Baroque and Romantic periods as well as more recent works that adhere to a classical tradition.
Contemporary music, whether in the form of operas, symphonies, concertos, or other chamber works, can certainly be classified as 'classical music' if it is composed with the intention of adhering to these traditions. The 'Concerto de Aranjuez,' for instance, while written in 1939, remains a highly performed and respected piece, adhering to classical principles and featuring a guitar within a symphonic context.
The debate over whether recent music qualifies as classical is largely a matter of semantics and individual perspective. While the strict definition of 'classical music' remains rooted in its historical period, many experts and listeners now accept broader interpretations, making 'classical music' a more flexible and inclusive term in today's musical landscape.
Conclusion: The term 'classical music' is not confined to a specific historical period but instead encompasses a wide range of compositions and styles. Modern composers continue to push the boundaries of what is considered 'classical,' ensuring that the tradition remains vibrant and relevant in the contemporary world.