The Enduring Influence of Classical Period Music on Modern Composers
In the world of classical music, few figures loom as large as Wolfgang Mozart and Ludwig van Beethoven. Their contributions extend far beyond their own time, influencing modern composers like Igor Stravinsky and shaping the very fabric of contemporary music. Let's explore how the music of the classical period continues to impact our music today.
The Neo-Classical Renaissance
As noted by the renowned modern composer Igor Stravinsky, the music of the Classical period had a lasting impact on the early 20th century music scene. Stravinsky himself was a prominent neo-classical composer, famously stating, 'I love Mozart. In fact I love him so much I steal from him.' This admission doesn’t refer to stealing notes, but rather the Classical aesthetic, particularly the tight structures and the Classical and Baroque forms that he appropriated for his own compositions.
The Emergence of Neoclassical Music
During the twentieth century, a movement called Neoclassical music emerged, which was essentially a reimagining of the 18th-century music of the Classical and late Baroque periods. Stravinsky was the king of this neoclassical movement, copying the forms of composers like Handel, Haydn, and Beethoven but infusing them with modern harmony. This innovative approach played a crucial role in shaping the musical landscape of the modern period.
The Impact on Modern Compositions
The classical period, spanning roughly from the 1750s to 1820s, left an indelible mark on modern music. One of the most notable impacts is the resurgence of the Rondo form. This form, characterized by the repeating of a melody, gained renewed popularity during the Classical period and continues to be a staple in contemporary music. When you hear a song on the radio with a repeated tune that gets stuck in your head, you’re experiencing the rondo form at work.
The Pioneers of Modern Harmony
Three composers in particular from the Classical period have had a profound influence on modern music: Wolfgang Mozart, Ludwig van Beethoven, and Joseph Haydn. Their work laid the groundwork for the harmony structures used in contemporary compositions. Dissonant chords, once considered outlandish, evolved through their compositions and continue to be integral to modern music.
The Ubiquity of Classical Influences
Many of their compositions have been adapted and reused in various forms. For instance, Beethoven's "Für Elise" has been featured in numerous popular songs, and his "Ode an den Freude" from the Ninth Symphony serves as the anthem of the European Union. Haydn’s "Emperor's Quartet" second movement is the melody of Germany’s national anthem, while Mozart's "Rondo alla Turca" has become a favorite among heavy metal enthusiasts. These pieces have also been featured in movies, further cementing their enduring legacy.
The Masses and Popular Music
A lesser-discussed but significant impact of the classical period is the democratization of music. Prior to this period, music was largely reserved for the elite and the wealthy. The classical composers brought music to the masses, initiating a trend in popular music that persists to this day.
In conclusion, the music of the classical period continues to influence the world of music in profound ways. From the resurgence of the Rondo form to the widespread use of Dissonant chords, and the iconic melodies of Mozart, Beethoven, and Haydn, the legacy of the classical period endures and continues to inspire modern composers and listeners alike.