Preface
This history of Western art music is organized into separate chapters for each of the periods of its development from the Medieval Ages to the present day. The text is mostly taken from various Wikipedia articles which may be accessed by clicking on the various headings and names of composers. As my intention is to trace the development of the art form my focus is mainly on the works of the composers rather than on their lives. Each chapter has an accompanying Spotify playlist. My hope is that by listening to the examples after reading about a particular composer the reader will gain a greater understanding and appreciation of the music than would be gained by merely reading about it or listening to it without any knowledge of the state of the art in the era in which it was composed. In addition to the playlists for each chapter I have created a playlist which includes Western art music from the Medieval era to the present day. This may be used as an introduction to Western art music for those who are unfamiliar with it or just for listening pleasure for those already familiar with it. I suggest using the shuffle mode in order to hear a random mix of music from different eras.
Western art music or classical music generally refers to the art music of the Western world, considered to be distinct from Western folk music or popular music traditions. It is sometimes distinguished as Western classical music, as the term “classical music” also applies to non-Western art music. Classical music is often characterized by formality and complexity in its musical form and harmonic organization, particularly with the use of polyphony. Since at least the ninth century it has been primarily a written tradition, spawning a sophisticated notational system, as well as accompanying literature in analytical, critical, historiographical, musicological and philosophical practices. A foundational component of Western culture, classical music is frequently seen from the perspective of individual or groups of composers, whose compositions, personalities and beliefs have fundamentally shaped its history.