The 7 Eras of
Western Classical Music
Classical music has left an imprint in the history of music , which has been prevalent since medieval times . It is characterised by rich and unique connotations , which have made it resonate with each period it was associated with . From the hypnotising chants of the Medieval period to breaking the boundaries in the postmodern era , here are the 7 eras of classical music and their evolution .
Medieval ( c . 1150-c . 1400 ) This classical music saw its roots in the 12th century and developed significantly over the forthcoming 200 years . Gregorian chants and plainsongs gained momentum , which had a monophonic sound wherein only one musical line was used . Since the sacred church music was predominant , it was also under the rules and regulations of the church that governed it . Some common musical instruments were the flute , the recorder and the lute .
Renaissance ( c . 1400-c . 1600 ) Renaissance is marked by a rebirth of culture , ideas , and philosophies , especially marked by the resurgence of art . Deviating from the medieval period , this era involved harmony and polyphony , where more instruments and voices made the song denser . Later , the composers started using a new system of major and minor scales as it started diverting from the typical church music . Some of the prominent composers were Giovanni Palestrina , Josquin des Prez , and Thomas Tallis , to name a few .
Baroque ( c . 1600-c . 1750 ) Baroque music is one of the dominant styles of classical music , which uses a flow of violin , cello , and viola , which became the cornerstone of this type of music genre . A major development took place in the music sphere , with modern orchestras and opera being a gift to the world . Major music and instruments produced during this time would shape the future of music we are all well versed in today . The music had a theatrical element to it , which was underscored by complexity and ornamentation .
Classical ( c . 1750-c . 1830 ) More refinement and fine-tuning of baroque music took place in the classical era , where there was a key development of form and guidance to proper structure and order in the music . Modern sonatas , concertos , and symphonies also reached their apex level . Many famous composers like Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart , Joseph Haydn , and Ludwig van Beethoven are the brainchildren of this era , which is most vividly remembered to this day .
Early Romantic ( c . 1830-1860 ) As the classical period became the norm , many new composers wanted to push the boundaries of the now-set conventional music patterns . Each composer wanted to infuse their composition with their unique identity that would display a distinction in their music . This period also became known as virtuoso , and some of the most technically difficult pieces were written during this time . Stories were woven into music to evoke a deep emotional quotient , especially of love , with dramatic , melodious and rich harmonies .
Late Romantic or Modern ( c . 1860-c . 1920 ) Even more deviation from the traditional qualm of music is seen in the late romantic or modern musical era . At its heart and soul lay the foundation of invention and emotion . The major use of overtures of themes saw prevalence , which had an undercurrent of experimentation . Famous composers like Igor Stravinsky , Claude Debussy , and Arnold Schoenberg made their mark with their unconventional compositions as they represented human expression .
20th and 21st century / Post Modern ( c . 1920-present ) Moving far away from tradition and conventions , this era has a very diverse history where new heights of experimentation are formed , and new genres of music are produced . Stravinsky , Bela Bartok , John Cage , Philip Glass and Steve Reich , whose works are eclectic and unique . Their music drew inspiration from their surroundings , and new instruments and formations were used .
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