September is Classical Music Month, and we are in awe of how much music has evolved over time! Classical music ranges across several periods, each with their unique style of musical composition. With the focus more on orchestral melody, classical music is definitely different from today’s music. But without its influence, modern music as we know it wouldn’t have existed.
History of Classical Music Month
Celebration of Classical Music Month started in 1994 by President Bill Clinton, who declared every September as Classical Music Month. His proclamation stated, “Classical music is a celebration of artistic excellence… This month we exalt the many talented composers, conductors, and musicians who bring classical music to our ears… Music is a unifying force in our world, bringing people together across vast cultural and geographical divisions.”
Music is a powerful medium, expressing emotion and touching hearts unlike anything else. Famous musicians like Mozart, Beethoven, and Haydn are some of the legendary composers who gifted us classical music. This wide-ranging genre uses multiple instruments for playing a single melody, giving a powerful sound that has transcended over time.
It is important to celebrate Classical Music Month to preserve the legacies of great musicians and introduce this genre to new audiences. Whether it is rock, jazz, or country music, the inspiration and roots will always be connected to classical music somehow.
Classical Music Month timeline
Music is played on flutes and other string instruments.
The focus of music shifted to a more choral style.
Ludwig Van Beethoven composes “Sonatina In F Major.”
Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky composes one of his most famous music pieces for “The Swan Lake.”
Classical Music Month FAQs
When is classical music Month?
September is Classical Music Month
Who was the father of classical music?
With more than 1,100 works, Johann Sebastian Bach is considered the father of classical music.
What are the five periods of classical music?
The five periods of classical music are divided into:
- Medieval
- Renaissance
- Baroque
- Classical
- Romantic
How To Celebrate Classical Music Month
Listen to the Classics
We are all familiar with how classical music sounds, but hardly ever delve into the good stuff. Explore the classical genre and see which sounds resonate with you.
Watch a classical orchestra
If you haven’t experienced a live classical orchestra, you’re missing out. There are countless performances available on YouTube and other archive sites for everyone to see.
Learn about classical instruments
Can you differentiate between a violin and a cello? A tuba and a trumpet? These instruments are a lot of fun to learn. Take some classes or just read about the instruments and their rich history.
5 Classical Music Periods In History
The Medieval period (1150–1400)
Music from this time was limited and mostly limited to composing hymns for the church. The music from this period is identified as Gregorian Chants and Organum.
The Renaissance period (1400–1600)
This era exposed audiences to polyphonic music — choral style particularly.
The Baroque period (1600–1750)
Music instruments became advanced, and this period saw the creation of the concerto, cantata, oratorio, and sonata.
The Classical period (1750–1820)
For the first time, the instrumental concerto, the symphony, and the sonata form were broadly performed for wide audiences.
The Romantic period (1820–1910)
A style branched out to by Beethoven himself, drama and emotion were added to the platonic beauty of classical music.
Why We Love Classical Music Month
Classical music’s influence on culture
We owe a lot of society and culture shaping to classical music, without which modern music wouldn’t exist. A broad and fascinating history of music deserves more than just a day for celebrating!
Preservation of classic music
Classical music is very much alive and revered in many circles, but it is important for coming generations to understand the beauty of it as well, for its preservation and continuation.
Inspiring musical prodigies
An entire month dedicated to classical music means more youngsters exposed to the genre, inspiring them to pursue instruments and become the next musical prodigy!
Classical Music Month dates
Year | Date | Day |
---|---|---|
2024 | September 1 | Sunday |
2025 | September 1 | Monday |
2026 | September 1 | Tuesday |
2027 | September 1 | Wednesday |
2028 | September 1 | Friday |