The Unique Style and Compositions of Frédéric Chopin
Of the many composers I’ve discussed in these articles, Frédéric Chopin has to be one of the most adored and admired. Not only was he … Read more
Dr Justin Wildridge
The Operatic Works of Giuseppe Verdi and Their Social Impact
Music for many people is the most powerful art form. It can quickly evoke a range of emotional responses, change models and mindsets, and enhance … Read more
The Influence of Italian Opera on Classical Music
To appreciate the extensive influence Italian opera has had on Classical music we need to take a good look into its past. One claim is … Read more
The Influence of Nationalism on Classical Music
Nationalism can be considered to refer to music that embraces some traditional elements such as that of folk songs or typical dance forms. It can … Read more
The Impact of Richard Wagner’s “Ring Cycle” on Opera
The 19th Century witnessed some of the most extreme musical developments in Western history. Everything appeared to be expanding. Orchestras commonly numbered a hundred performers, … Read more
The Evolution of Sonata Form in Classical Music
Form or structure in music refers to how the music is constructed or put together. There are many different forms or structures that have developed … Read more
The Art of Improvisation: Exploring Jazz and Classical Crossover
In conversation, people often make the connection between improvisation and jazz. This makes perfect sense as the genre is oriented around the improvisational skills of … Read more
The Cross-Cultural Influences in Classical Music: East Meets West
One of the most engaging and inspirational areas of music is where Eastern and Western cultures intersect. Over hundreds of years of cultural history, fruitful … Read more
The Influence of Folk Music on Classical Compositions
It’s not unreasonable to imagine that classical and folk music are completely separate genres. Never the twain shall meet, however, folk music has played a … Read more
The Operatic Genius of Giuseppe Verdi
When you hear the music of Verdi (1813-1901), it is often so powerful and passionate that the emotions you feel are overwhelming. In this way … Read more
The Influence of Johan Sebastian Bach on Classical Music
JS Bach (1685 – 1750), came from a long line of musicians that is thought to date back to a man named Veit Bach. He … Read more
The Impact of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony on Classical Music
When it comes to accurately measuring the impact Ludwig van Beethoven had on the musical world, numerous academic tomes deal with this in an appropriate … Read more
The Evolution of the Piano: From Harpsichord to Modern Grand Piano
Tracing the evolution of any instrument is rewarding, informative, and enlightening. It may be particularly so if you have ever played or are interested in … Read more
The Baroque Period: Handel, Vivaldi and the Birth of Orchestral Music
It’s maybe an odd thought to consider that once there were no orchestras. That fabulous collection of a hundred or more hard-working musicians ready to … Read more
Debussy and Impressionism: The Shaping Of Modern Classical Music
French composer Claude Debussy did not align himself with the movement that became known as Impressionism. Understandably, Debussy resisted this classification as with it could … Read more