Classical Music for the Masses!

When you read the words “classical music,” what do you think? Do you think of crowded, stuffy music halls jammed with overdressed and pretentious people? Or do you think of a relaxing night at home in your favorite chair with a good book? Do you think the word “intimidating?” Or perhaps you think “invigorating.” It seems that no matter who you are, the words “classical music” hold a strong, clear meaning. Although each one of us may have a different meaning, each one of us absolutely has a valid reason for their definition. But does our definition, valid as it is, restrict us? Does it keep us from finding something more fulfilling, enriching, or even life-changing?

For me, “classical music” is a very broad term that covers everything from Bugs Bunny and Wagner, to a concert hall and Mozart, even to a classroom and a history book. But first and foremost, it implies to me the word “emotion.” The reason I love classical music so much as to invest my entire livelihood in it is because it inspires within me every kind of emotion thought possible. And this is why you, no matter what your definition of “classical music” is, can love it, too.

For some reason, classical music has been coined by intellectual elitists as something beyond the reach of “normal people.” This abuse of the music, in my opinion, is not only causing the slow death of the art form, but it’s more importantly keeping people who could love classical music away from it. Not even a hundred years ago, men and women from all walks of life could be found humming a tune from the most recent opera or symphony. They used it as a way to relax and enjoy themselves, they used it as a way to connect to something, and they even used it as a banner for their political views (“Viva Verdi!”). And with the new musical genres that have been born in America during the past century, paired with other historical events, people have started forgetting about their beloved classical tunes, and some have even shunned the genre altogether.

I’m not here to denounce any other kind of music or to glorify classical music above all others. My goal is to remind people of this music that can be so many things to so many people. So on this page, I’m attempting to find various ways to help you, the reader, connect with classical music. It may be through emotion, it may be through the kind of music you already listen to, or maybe just by giving you options. I hope you find something that moves you!

The list of musical examples is coming soon!