Dr Justin Wildridge

When I first came across Reggae I found myself quickly seduced by its fusion of African, Jamaican, and American musical styles. A friend of mine … Read more

Characteristics of Hector Berlioz Music For many listeners, Hector Berlioz epitomizes the image of the Romantic composer. His works are often monumental in their ambitions … Read more

As a musical genre, Funk has its roots firmly embedded in jazz. Funk incorporates many elements of jazz alongside soul and earlier African-American styles of … Read more

Two composers stand shoulder to shoulder as giants of the Classical era. One is Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, the other Joseph Haydn. Whilst there are definite … Read more

The popular version of Gospel music that appears in movies and echoes in many a church hall in the US, in particular, has its roots … Read more

Approaching this article from a slightly obscure angle, I have to mention that I love the word ‘bluegrass’. Of all the extraordinary genres of music … Read more

To many people, the mere mention of the word Ragtime prompts the name, Scott Joplin. This is because he is perhaps the most celebrated composer, … Read more

Chamber music refers to a more intimate musical setting that that of grander orchestral or operatic music. When listening to chamber music, we are likely … Read more

The term ‘absolute music’ is thought to have been first used by composer Richard Wagner concerning Beethoven’s 9th Symphony. Music can be considered to be … Read more

This title is one that has concerned many books written by eminent academics over many decades and one we can address only in scant detail … Read more

Unless you have had the inclination or opportunity to study theoretical music, then the terms in the title may not be entirely clear. Both terms … Read more

Mozart Vs Salieri It is probably important to highlight the fact that had it not been for the award-winning play and subsequent film, by Peter … Read more

The mechanics of singing is the source of much debate and controversy. Many singers will tell you that it is a skill you’re born with, … Read more

Classical music covers a very broad span of music from the Medieval to the present day. Each era of music has its unique characteristics and … Read more