Classical music is loosely defined as music written in staff notation and based in the traditions of secular and Western liturgical music. Staff notation specifies practically every aspect of the music’s performance, including speed, rhythms and pitch, leaving little room for improvisation or creative interpretation. The origins of classical music date back to the Ancient Greeks. The following outlines some of the major historical developments and periods of classical music.
The Origins of Classical Music in Ancient Greece
The first historical information we have that includes some semblance of modern classical music is from Ancient Greece. The famous Greek philosopher and mathematician, Pythagoras, is said to have created the first tuning system. The development of a tuning system is a key component of musical notation, which is seen in most, if not all, classical music. Furthermore, another Greek, Aristoxenus, is said to have developed scales and individual tones. Also, Ancient Greek instruments such as the lyre and the aulos, are the precursors of classical orchestras. These instruments were played together in a group to orchestrate complex musical arrangements.
The Origins of Classical Music in the Early Period
The Early Period of classical music, otherwise known as the Medieval Period, encompasses the developments that took place in music from between the fall of Rome to approximately the year 400. There are several distinct movements within the Early Period. However, if the major developments that constitute the origins of classical music are to be isolated, it can be said that the Early Period saw the movement away from the oral transmission of a musical score to the written page.
Prior to, and during much of, the Early Period, musical compositions were not written down. Instead, for any piece of music to be transmitted, or communicated from the composer to musicians, the composer had to be present. With the development of the printing press and other technology, music became able to be separated into written compositions and orchestral productions. Compositions became fixed, rather than subject to change each time a piece was played.