Origin & Characteristics
Classical music is one of the oldest musical genres to date . Classical music made it’s appearance in the early 19th century. However, it became more popular in the Black communities in the 20th century. Black people were excluded out of the genre up until the time of enslavement in American. After freedom was granted, African Americans began to celebrate through the arts and Classical music was one of them. Classical music can be considered as technical and precise. Classical music uses European techniques. Classical music has a homophonic melody which is a single melody in which every instrument plays along to, which gives the music an elegant sound. Classical music includes a vocalist sometimes, but more commonly uses strings, bass, woodwinds, and percussion instruments. There are three other forms of classical music which include concertos, symphony, as well as sonata.
Commodifications & Social Implications
All though slavery was over and freedom was granted, life for African Americans was still very difficult.Classical music composers have had to constantly fight for their rights to become musicians and compose music. Classical Music was a genre rooted from European and Western culture, so it many were not accepting of African American’s playing “White” music. However, the music encouraged African Americans to keep pushing and it uplifted the black community. Some Black composers were able to reap the benefits of their work and some were not. Some composers were able to access adequate education in music which allowed travel. They were able to spread their music around the world. After the Emancipation Proclamation, a rise in Black Composers in classical music quickly changed earning some composers membership to organizations, such as ASCAP and BMI which protected their music and their rights.
Important Performers
David Baker
Francis 'Frank' Johnson
Alvin Singleton
Samuel Coleridge Taylor
Influences in Future Genres & Conclusory Opinion
Classical Music is one of the most influential genres in the history of music. Classical music has given music the introduction of a chorus, which is a melody that is repeated throughout songs. Classical music has influenced rock as well as pop music with its exaggerated and exuberant sound. Black composers have contributed to classical music and continue to contribute game changing characteristics. Although many are not given the credit they deserve, their impact is still massive.
