Classical

Classical music is the sweeping term applied to the musical tradition that is untethered and almost diametrically opposed to the popular music of contemporary culture. This music evokes classical traditions, focuses on formal styles, invite

Classical music is the sweeping term applied to the musical tradition that is untethered and almost diametrically opposed to the popular music of contemporary culture. This music evokes classical traditions, focuses on formal styles, invites technical and detailed deconstruction and criticism, and demands focused attention from the listener. This music is associated with, and often compared to, fine art and high culture, bringing with it accusations of haughtiness and exclusivity on the part of its champions. The fact remains that many "classical" pieces were the popular music of their time, and have remained popular to this day. All the same, there is no question that the public taste for and appreciation of formal music of this type has generally waned, though periods of resurgence come and go. There is therefore a nostalgia associated with classical music.

Classical music is a broad, somewhat imprecise term, referring to music produced in, or rooted in the traditions of, European art, ecclesiastical and concert music, encompassing a broad period from roughly 1000 to the present day. The central norms of this tradition, according to one school of thought, developed between 1550 and 1820, focusing on what is known as the common practice period.