In the mid-eighteenth century, the Baroque period ended and the Classical period was birthed. There were not many African Americans who were trained during the Antebellum period. However, it did not take long for the black musicians to become composers and performers in this genre.
Elements of the classical genre are most commonly associated with a piano today and may be accompanied by various string instruments. However, the original instrument used in classical music was the harpsichord. The switch to piano helped the performers to exaggerate the intensity of the music since it is generally instrumental.
After the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, there were obviously still social tensions. However, the newly freed African Americans may have found some hope which was shown in their immense musical abilities in all genres. As it relates to classical music specifically, there was a rise of influential composers and performers such as Harry T. Burleigh, Will Marion Cook, Justin Holland, and Clarence Cameron White. Who were all paid for their works in composing performing and arranging music.
Classical music is just that, a classic. When people refer to a “classic they are discussing something that may be very old yet something they can still appreciate. Classical music has had its times when it was extremely popular but it has never gone out of style. With its influence on the romantic period and the modern interpretations modern artists, this music does not seem to have an expiration date.
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