Category: Education

Intro to Music History

Music is an art form that has been evolving and changing for centuries. Composing music is a complex process that involves the arrangement of sounds and silences to create a meaningful structure. Over the years, composers have created various styles and genres of music that reflect the social, cultural, and historical context of their time. In this article, we will explore the different periods of music history and how they have evolved over time.

Medieval Period (500-1400)

The Medieval Period, also known as the Middle Ages, was a time of significant cultural and societal development in Europe that lasted roughly from the 5th century to the 15th century. Music during this period was deeply intertwined with religious and liturgical practices, and it played a crucial role in the lives of people at the time. The music of the Medieval Period was characterized by its sacred nature, with a strong focus on vocal music and the use of plainchant or plain song as the predominant musical form.

One of the most significant developments in Medieval music was the establishment of Gregorian chant, also known as plainchant or plain song. Gregorian chant was the official music of the Roman Catholic Church and was used in liturgical ceremonies, such as the Mass and the Divine Office. It was monophonic, meaning it consisted of a single melodic line without any harmonies, and it was predominantly vocal, with little use of instruments. Gregorian chant was composed in Latin and was characterized by its modal melodies and its solemn, meditative quality.

During the Medieval Period, music notation also emerged, allowing composers to write down their compositions and preserve them for future generations. The development of music notation helped standardize musical practices and allowed for more complex and sophisticated compositions to be created. However, the notation of the time was relatively simple compared to modern notation, and it primarily indicated the pitch and duration of the notes, leaving much of the interpretation and performance practice to the musicians.

Aside from plainchant, there were also other forms of vocal music during the Medieval Period, such as organum, which was an early form of polyphony. Organum involved adding a second melodic line, called the “organal voice,” to an existing plainchant melody, creating parallel or oblique harmonies. This marked the beginnings of polyphonic music, which would later become a prominent feature of Western classical music.

In addition to vocal music, instruments were also used during the Medieval Period, although they played a secondary role to vocal music. Common instruments of the time included various types of stringed instruments, such as the lute, harp, and vielle, as well as wind instruments like the recorder and pipe. These instruments were primarily used to accompany vocal music or perform dance music and were often played in ensembles or as solo instruments.

The repertoire of Medieval music was largely focused on religious themes, with compositions based on biblical texts, liturgical hymns, and prayers. The music was often performed in the context of the church and was used as a means of worship, meditation, and reflection. The melodies were often modal and followed established rules of liturgical music, reflecting the theological and philosophical beliefs of the time.

Medieval music was also closely associated with the troubadour and trouvere traditions in France, which were secular musical traditions that focused on courtly love, chivalry, and romance. These songs were performed by traveling musicians and were often accompanied by instruments such as the lute or harp. The troubadour and trouvere songs were typically sung in the vernacular language of the region, in contrast to the Latin used in liturgical music.

Overall, the music of the Medieval Period was characterized by its sacred nature, with a strong emphasis on vocal music, particularly plainchant. It played a vital role in religious and liturgical practices, and its influence can still be heard in Western music today. The development of plainchant, the emergence of polyphony, and the use of musical notation were significant milestones in music history, laying the foundation for the musical innovations that would follow in subsequent periods.

Renaissance Period (1400-1600)

The Renaissance period, which spanned roughly from the 14th to the 17th centuries in Europe, was a time of profound cultural, artistic, and intellectual transformation. In the field of music, the Renaissance brought about significant changes in compositional techniques, performance practices, and the role of music in society. Music during this period was characterized by its rich harmonies, complex polyphony, and increased emphasis on humanism, leading to the flourishing of secular and sacred music alike.

One of the defining features of Renaissance music was the development of polyphony, which is the use of multiple independent melodic lines occurring simultaneously. This marked a departure from the predominantly monophonic texture of Medieval music and allowed for greater expressive possibilities in composition. Composers such as Josquin des Prez, Guillaume Dufay, and Palestrina, among others, were renowned for their mastery of polyphonic writing, creating intricate and highly expressive choral works.

Another significant development during the Renaissance was the increased use of musical notation, which became more precise and detailed compared to the simpler notation of the Medieval Period. This allowed composers to write down more complex compositions and facilitated the dissemination of music across different regions of Europe. Composers also began to experiment with different musical forms, such as the mass, motet, madrigal, and chanson, creating diverse and innovative musical works.

The Renaissance period also saw a shift in the role of music in society. While music remained an important part of religious and liturgical practices, there was a growing interest in secular music, which reflected the changing social and cultural dynamics of the time. Courtly patronage of music became more prominent, with nobility and aristocracy supporting the composition and performance of secular music for entertainment and cultural enrichment.

Secular music during the Renaissance included genres such as the madrigal and chanson, which were typically written in the vernacular language of the region and explored themes of love, nature, and human emotion. The madrigal, in particular, became a popular form of secular vocal music, characterized by its intricate polyphony and expressive text setting. Composers such as Monteverdi and Gesualdo were known for their pioneering work in the madrigal genre, pushing the boundaries of music and poetry to create deeply emotional and expressive compositions.

In addition to polyphonic choral music and secular vocal music, instrumental music also saw significant development during the Renaissance. Composers began to write music specifically for instruments, and the use of instruments in ensemble music became more common. Instrumental forms such as the ricercare, canzona, and dance music, such as the pavane and galliard, gained popularity during this period, showcasing the technical skill and virtuosity of instrumentalists.

The Renaissance period was also marked by a growing interest in humanism, an intellectual and cultural movement that emphasized the value of human achievements, individualism, and the pursuit of knowledge. This humanistic approach influenced music, with composers seeking to express the depth and complexity of human emotions through their compositions. This led to more expressive and emotive music, with an increased focus on individual creativity and originality.

Overall, the Renaissance period was a time of profound innovation and transformation in music. It saw the development of polyphony, the refinement of musical notation, the rise of secular music, and a growing emphasis on humanism. The works of renowned composers from this period continue to be celebrated and performed today, reflecting the enduring legacy of Renaissance music and its profound impact of Western classical music history.

Baroque Period (1600-1750)

The Baroque period was a time of great change in music history. During this time, composers began to focus more on instrumental music, and the orchestra became a prominent feature of musical composition.

One of the most significant developments of the Baroque period was the creation of the concerto, which is a musical composition that features a solo instrument accompanied by an orchestra. This innovation led to the creation of some of the most famous pieces of music history, such as Antonio Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons and Johann Sebastian Bach’s Brandenburg Concertos.

Another significant development of the Baroque period was the creation of the opera, which is a musical drama that is sung throughout. This innovation led to the creation of some of the most famous operas in history, such as George Frideric Handel’s Messiah and Johann Sebastian Bach’s St. Matthew Passion.

Classical Period (1750-1820)

The Classical Period of music history, spanning roughly from the mid-18th to the early 19th century, is often regarded as a golden age of Western classical music. It was a time of great artistic achievements, marked by the emergence of a new musical style characterized by clarity, balance, and formal structure. The Classical Period saw the development of many of the musical forms and genres that are still widely used today, and the works of famous composers from this era continue to be celebrated and performed around the world.

One of the defining characteristics of Classical music is its emphasis on order and balance. Composers of this period, such as Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Franz Joseph Haydn, and Ludwig van Beethoven, sought to create music that was clear, elegant, and refined. They placed great importance on formal structures, such as sonata form, which provided a sense of symmetry and organization to their compositions. Melodies in Classical music were often lyrical and graceful, with balanced phrases and clear-cut phrases, creating a sense of symmetry and proportion.

Harmony in Classical music was characterized by a sense of functional tonality, with clear harmonic progressions and resolutions. Major and minor keys were used, and composers often employed common harmonic patterns and progressions, creating a sense of familiarity and stability in their music. The Classical Period also saw the rise of the symphony as a major musical form, with composers such as Haydn and Mozart writing symphonies that were multi-movement works for full orchestra, often featuring a fast-slow-minuet-fast structure.

The Classical Period was also a time of great innovation in instrumental music history. The piano, which had just been invented, became a popular instrument for composers, and many of the great piano sonatas and concertos that are still performed today were written during this period. The orchestra also underwent significant developments, with the emergence of the classical orchestra as we know it today, with standardized instrumentation and a clear division of sections (strings, woodwinds, brass, and percussion).

Another important aspect of Classical music was its focus on clarity of expression. Composers of this period sought to communicate their ideas with simplicity and directness, avoiding excessive ornamentation or complexity. This emphasis on clarity and simplicity made Classical music accessible to a wide audience, and it became popular not only in the royal courts but also in public concerts and in the growing middle-class salons of the time.

In addition to instrumental music, vocal music also played an important role in the Classical Period. Opera, oratorio, and choral music were popular genres, and composers such as Mozart and Haydn wrote many vocal works that are still performed in concert halls and opera houses today. The Classical vocal music often featured beautiful melodies, clear text settings, and expressive singing, with an emphasis on the beauty of the human voice.

The Classical Period was also a time of great social and cultural change, with the rise of the Enlightenment and the ideals of reason, logic, and humanism. These philosophical and intellectual movements influenced the music of the time, with composers using music as a means to express the ideals of the Enlightenment, such as the pursuit of truth, beauty, and goodness. The focus on clarity, balance, and order in Classical music can be seen as reflecting the Enlightenment’s emphasis on reason and rationality.

Overall, the Classical Period was a time of great artistic and cultural achievements in the world of music. It was a period characterized by clarity, balance, and formal structure, with a focus on simplicity and directness of expression. The works of famous composers from this era continue to be celebrated and studied, and the legacy of the Classical Period can still be heard in the music of today, with its enduring influence on Western classical music and beyond.

Romantic Period (1820-1900)

The Romantic Era of music history, spanning roughly from the late 18th to the late 19th century, was a period of profound artistic and cultural transformation. It was a time when composers broke away from the formal conventions of the Classical Era and sought to express deep emotions, individualism, and imagination through their music. The Romantic Era marked a shift from the objective and rational approach of the Classical Era to a subjective and emotional one, reflecting the changing social, political, and philosophical landscape of the time.

One of the key characteristics of Romantic music was its emphasis on emotional expression. Composers of the Romantic Era sought to convey a wide range of emotions, from deep sorrow to ecstatic joy, through their music. They used rich harmonies, colorful orchestrations, and expressive melodies to create a powerful emotional impact on the listener. The music of the Romantic Era often featured dramatic contrasts in dynamics, tempo, and mood, creating a sense of emotional turbulence and intensity.

Another hallmark of Romantic music was its focus on individualism and self-expression. Composers of this era often drew inspiration from their own personal experiences, thoughts, and feelings, and used music as a means of expressing their unique artistic voice. This individualistic approach led to a wide diversity of styles and forms, as composers sought to break away from established conventions and explore new artistic territories.

Programmatic music, or music that tells a story or portrays a scene, was also a prominent feature of the Romantic Era. Composers such as Ludwig van Beethoven, Hector Berlioz, and Richard Strauss were known for their programmatic works, which were often inspired by literature, nature, or personal experiences. These works sought to evoke vivid imagery and emotions in the listener, blurring the lines between music and other art forms.

The Romantic Era also saw the rise of virtuosic performers, particularly in the field of piano music. Composers such as Franz Liszt and Frederic Chopin pushed the boundaries of piano technique, creating challenging and dazzling works that showcased the expressive capabilities of the instrument. The piano became a central instrument in many Romantic compositions, allowing for incredible displays of virtuosity and emotional depth.

In terms of form, Romantic music often departed from the strict structures of the Classical Era. Composers experimented with new forms, expanded existing ones, and often used free-form structures that allowed for greater flexibility and spontaneity in their compositions. The symphony, sonata, and concerto forms were still widely used, but composers also turned to smaller forms such as character pieces, lieder (art songs), and nocturnes.

The Romantic Era was also a time of nationalistic fervor, as composers drew inspiration from their own cultural heritage and sought to create a unique national musical identity. Composers such as Bedrich Smetana, Jean Sibelius, and Modest Mussorgsky incorporated folk melodies, nationalistic themes, and local musical traditions into their works, creating a sense of musical patriotism and cultural pride.

Overall, the Romantic Era was a period of profound musical innovation, emotional expression, and individualism. It was a time when composers pushed the boundaries of traditional musical forms, experimented with new harmonic and melodic ideas, and sought to convey deep emotions and personal experiences through their music. The legacy of the Romantic Era can still be heard in the music of today, as it continues to inspire and captivate audiences with its rich emotional depth and expressive power.

20th Century and Contemporary Music (1900 – Present)

The 20th century and contemporary period of music composing is characterized by a wide range of styles and genres. During this time, composers began to experiment with new sounds and techniques, and music became more eclectic and diverse.

One of the most significant developments of the 20th century was the creation of atonal music, which is music that does not have a tonal center. This innovation led to the creation of some of the most famous atonal works in music history, such as Arnold Schoenberg’s Pierrot Lunaire and Alban Berg’s Wozzeck.

Another significant development of the 20th century was the creation of electronic music, which is music that is created using electronic instruments and technology. This innovation led to the creation of some of the most famous electronic works in music history, such as Karlheinz Stockhausen’s Kontakte and Wendy Carlos’s Switched-On Bach.

Conclusion

The evolution of music composing can be seen as a reflection of the social, cultural, and historical context of each period in music history. From the simple melodies of the medieval period to the complex atonal works of the 20th century, music has been constantly evolving and changing over the centuries. Each period has brought its own innovations and developments, and each composer has left their own unique mark on the world of music.

By studying the different periods of music history, we can gain a better understanding of the rich and diverse history of music and appreciate the beauty and complexity of this art form.

Additional Reading

Now that you’ve learned much more about music history, take some time to read more of our articles.

Do you use orchestral strings instruments in your mixes? Read our article about the 6 Steps for Success in Music Streaming. You can also learn the fundamentals of taxes as a musician here.

Breve Music Studios publishes music to Spotify, YouTube Music, Amazon Music and more. Follow our pages on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, and YouTube.

Listen to our ensembles: Breve Orchestra, Breve Music Ensemble, Breve Low Brass Ensemble, Breve Woodwind Ensemble, and Jermaine Harris on Spotify.

What is Music Theory?

Music theory is the foundation of all music education. It is the study of the structure and elements of music, including harmony, melody, rhythm, and form. Understanding music theory helps musicians create and perform music, and it is essential for anyone who wants to compose or arrange music. In this article, we will explore the basics of music theory, why it is important, and how you can start learning it.

Music theory is the study of the fundamental elements of music, such as notes, intervals, chords, scales, rhythm, and harmony. It explains how these elements work together to create different musical styles, genres, and compositions.

Music theory provides musicians with a vocabulary and a set of rules for creating and understanding music. It allows them to analyze and describe music using precise terminology, which helps them communicate with other musicians and composers.

Why is Music Theory Important?

Learning music theory is essential for anyone who wants to become a skilled musician, composer, or music educator. Here are some reasons why:

1. Improves musical ability. Understanding music theory enables musicians to read music, analyze and create melodies and harmonies, and develop their sense of rhythm and timing.
2. Enhances creativity. Music theory provides a framework for composing and arranging music, giving musicians the tools to create their own unique pieces.
3. Facilitates collaboration. By understanding music theory, musicians can work together more effectively, communicate musical ideas, and produce better performances.
4. Enables critical listening. Knowledge of music theory allows musicians to listen critically to music, analyzing its structure and identifying elements that make it appealing.

How to Learn Music Theory

Now that you know the importance of music theory, you may be wondering how to start learning it. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Study the basics: Begin by learning the fundamentals of music theory, including notes, scales, intervals, chords, and rhythm.
2. Practice reading music: Learning to read music is an essential skill for any musician. Practice reading sheet music and identifying the different elements of music theory within it.
3. Listen to music: Listen to a variety of music styles and genres, paying attention to the elements of music theory that are present in each.
4. Take a course: Enroll in a music theory course or workshop to learn from an experienced instructor and gain hands-on experience.
5. Play an instrument: Playing an instrument is a great way to apply music theory concepts in practice. You can practice playing scales, chords, and melodies to reinforce your understanding.

Basics of Music Theory

Music Intervals

An interval in music refers to the distance between two notes. The distance between two notes is measured in terms of the number of semitones (or half-steps) between them. Semitones are the smallest interval in Western music, and they are the building blocks of all other intervals.

There are two types of intervals in music: harmonic and melodic. Harmonic intervals are played at the same time, whereas melodic intervals are played one after the other.

Harmonic intervals are classified into two categories: consonant and dissonant. Consonant intervals are pleasant to the ear, while dissonant intervals are harsh or unpleasant. Consonant intervals are usually used to create a sense of stability and resolution, while dissonant intervals are used to create tension or conflict.

Melodic intervals are classified based on their size. There are six types of melodic intervals: seconds, thirds, fourths, fifths, sixths, and sevenths. Each of these intervals has a specific number of semitones between the two notes.

The smallest interval is the second, which consists of one semitone. The third is two semitones, the fourth is three semitones, the fifth is four semitones, the sixth is five semitones, and the seventh is six semitones. The distance between two notes that are an octave apart is called an octave, which is equivalent to twelve semitones.

Music Notation

Music notation consists of a set of symbols that represent different aspects of music, such as pitch, duration, and dynamics. Western notation is the kind that you’ve likely seen before. It uses which uses a staff (or stave) consisting of five lines and four spaces.

Each line and space on the staff represents a specific pitch. The notes are placed on the staff according to their pitch, with higher notes being placed higher on the staff and lower notes being placed lower on the staff. The clef symbol at the beginning of the staff indicates the range of notes that the staff represents.

There are two types of clefs in Western music notation: the treble clef and the bass clef. The treble clef is used for higher-pitched instruments and voices, such as the violin, flute, and soprano voice. The bass clef is used for lower-pitched instruments and voices, such as the cello, bassoon, and bass voice.

Notes in music notation are represented by oval-shaped symbols with stems and flags (or beams). The stem is a vertical line that extends from the notehead and is either up or down, depending on the note’s position on the staff. The flag (or beam) is a horizontal line that is attached to the stem and represents the note’s duration.

The duration of a note in music notation is indicated by the shape of the notehead and the number of flags (or beams) attached to the stem. The first image above this paragraph shows the most common note durations that you’ll find in written music. The names of the notes are as follows (starting from the top):

• Whole note – An oval-shaped notehead without a stem or flag, indicating that it lasts for four beats
• Half note – An oval-shaped notehead with a stem, indicating that it lasts for two beats.
• Quarter note – An oval-shaped notehead with a stem and one flag, indicating that it lasts for one beat.
• Eighth note – An oval-shaped notehead with a stem and two flags, indicating that it lasts for half a beat.
• Sixteenth note – An oval-shaped notehead with a stem and three flags, indicating that it lasts for a quarter of a beat.
• Thirty-secondth note – An oval-shaped notehead with a stem and three flags, indicating that it lasts for an eighth of a beat.

Tempo, Dynamics, and Articulation

In addition to pitch and duration, music notation also indicates other aspects of music, such as tempo, dynamics, and articulation.

Tempo refers to the speed at which the music is played, and it is indicated by a tempo marking at the beginning of the score. Common tempo markings include adagio (slow), andante (moderate), allegro (fast), and presto (very fast).

Dynamics refer to the volume of the music, and they are indicated by symbols such as p (piano, meaning soft), f (forte, meaning loud), and crescendo (gradually getting louder).

Articulation refers to the way in which notes are played, and it is indicated by symbols such as staccato (short and detached), legato (smooth and connected), and accent (emphasized).

Key Signatures and Time Signature

Music notation also includes other symbols and markings, such as key signatures and time signatures.

A key signature indicates the key in which the music is written, and it is indicated by a series of sharps or flats at the beginning of the score.

A time signature indicates the meter of the music, and it is indicated by two numbers stacked on top of each other. The top number indicates the number of beats in a measure, while the bottom number indicates the note value that receives one beat.

The use of music notation allows composers and performers to communicate musical ideas and performances across time and space. It enables musicians to accurately reproduce the music of the past and to create new music that can be shared and performed by others. It also allows for the study and analysis of music, as scholars and researchers can examine the written score and understand the composer’s intentions and choices.

Conclusion

In summary, music theory is the foundation of all music education. Understanding music theory enables musicians to create, perform, and analyze music, and it is essential for anyone who wants to compose or arrange music. By learning the basics of music theory, practicing reading music, listening to music, taking a course, and playing an instrument, you can improve your musical ability, enhance your creativity, and communicate more effectively with other musicians.

Additional Reading

Do you use orchestral woodwinds instruments in your mixes? Read our article about the 10 of the top Woodwind VSTs. You can also learn the fundamentals of music publishing here.

Breve Music Studios publishes music to Spotify, YouTube Music, Amazon Music and more. Follow our pages on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, and YouTube.

Listen to our ensembles: Breve Orchestra, Breve Music Ensemble, Breve Low Brass Ensemble, Breve Woodwind Ensemble, and Jermaine Harris on Spotify.

Introduction to Breve

A breve is a musical notation symbol used to indicate the duration of a note. It is a double whole note, also known as a double note, and is used to represent a very long duration in music. The breve is an elongated oval shape, similar to a whole note, but with a thicker stem that extends vertically from the center of the oval. The stem may be open or closed, depending on the style of notation.

History

The breve has its origins in medieval music notation and was used to indicate a long note value that lasted for several beats or even an entire measure. In modern music notation, the breve is rarely used and is typically reserved for very slow or sustained passages of music.

The breve is typically used in conjunction with other note values to indicate relative durations. For example, a breve followed by a whole note would indicate that the whole note should last for half the duration of the breve. Similarly, a breve followed by a half note would indicate that the half note should last for a quarter of the duration of the breve.

In terms of musical interpretation, the breve is often used to indicate a sustained or held note. It can be used to create a sense of stillness or prolonged tension in the music, adding a sense of calm or serenity. The length of the breve allows for extended notes that can create a sense of spaciousness or expansiveness in the music, giving the performer and listener a moment to pause and reflect.

In some notational systems, the breve is used to indicate a rest rather than a note. A breve rest is a rest symbol that is similar in shape to the breve note, but is placed on the musical staff to indicate a silent or paused duration of time. Like the breve note, the breve rest is also rarely used in modern music notation, and other rest symbols such as whole rests or half rests are more commonly used.

It’s worth noting that the use of the breve in modern music notation can vary depending on the style, genre, and time period of the music. In some contemporary musical genres, such as jazz or popular music, the breve may not be used at all, as these styles often rely on more simplified and standardized forms of notation.

Conclusion

The breve is a musical notation symbol used to indicate a long duration or sustained note. It is a double whole note and is rarely used in modern music notation, but can still be found in certain contexts, particularly in more traditional or classical styles of music. The breve is typically used to indicate a sustained or held note, adding a sense of stillness or tension to the music. While its usage may be limited in modern music, it remains an important element in understanding historical music notation and its evolution over time.

Additional Reading

Now that you’ve learned about a Breve, feel free to check out our other articles.

Do you also use orchestral strings or woodwinds instruments in your mixes? Read our article about the 5 of the best Cello VSTs and 3 Tips for success in music buinsess.

Breve Music Studios publishes music to Spotify, YouTube Music, Amazon Music and more. Follow our pages on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, and YouTube.

Listen to our ensembles: Breve Orchestra, Breve Music Ensemble, Breve Low Brass Ensemble, Breve Woodwind Ensemble, and Jermaine Harris on Spotify.