It’s fair to say that almost everyone enjoys music. Of course, different types of music appeal to different people, from jazz to hard rock to hip-hop to salsa…the list goes on. While classical music and opera were once the most popular forms of music, in the 21st century, they are considered “niche” or “elitist” by many. This is unfortunate as they are a rich part of mankind’s musical heritage. Here are some reasons that the casual listener should keep an open mind and seek out classical music.
Recognizing Skill
You don’t have to be a flute virtuoso or an orchestra conductor New York City NY to appreciate the skill required to perform complex musicianship in a symphony setting. On a purely technical level, even the least “musical” person can be moved by the vast valve work of a master trumpeter, the sensitive vibrato of a trained cellist, or the vocal power behind an operatic soprano or basso profundo!
Historical Context
One of the major appeals of both classical concert music and opera is its rich history. As an art form, these styles of musical composition can be traced back nearly 300 years, with pieces from that area by titans like Mozart and Bach still being performed all over the world every day.
Storytelling
Opera is, of course, a critical step in the tradition of dramatic storytelling, or theatre, in other words. Opera is a midpoint between ancient Greek tragedy, Shakespearian plays, and the modern musical. Students and fans of literature, music, and history alike can recognize its unique and vital role in the historical record of western civilization. Most people who shrug off opera and classical music have never been to a performance. If you can convince someone who is uninitiated to see and hear what they’ve been missing, you very well may have a convert on your hands!
