Essay, Research Paper: Importance Of Classical Music

Classical music is important for many reasons. However before the benefits of classical music can be brought to light, it is important to clarify what "classical music" really is. There are many misconceptions on what classical music is. The name "classical music" is applied to the Viennese Classical expression, which flourished in the late 18th century, and early 19th do to the brilliance of three main composers. Hayden, Mozart, and Beethoven were the three brilliant minds that are credited for the classical music period. Some musical characteristics of classical music are: the use of energetic and orchestral color in a thematic way, the use of rhythm, including periodic structure and harmonic rhythm, to give definition to large-scale forms, along with the use of modulation to build longer spans of tension and release (most of the music is cast in sonata form or closely related forms), and the witty, typically Austrian mixture of comic and serious strains. The importance of classical music can be seen in many different things. For example it has been proven to help the mind, it is also yet another way of expression, and it can also be used as therapy.

One of the most intriguing benefits of classical music is how it helps stimulate the brain. In many child development studies, research has shown very positive effects on the child's brain by just listening to classical music. The research has demonstrated that auditory stimulation (listening to classical music) at an early age can increase the rate of development of synaptic connections in a young mind. By increasing the synaptic connection, intelligence is also increased. "Music, particularly classical music, stimulates the frontal and prefrontal portions of the brain that perform analytical functions." Stated Professor Gordon Shaw from the University of California-Irvine.
Many doctors for therapeutic reasons also use classical music. The reasons can be anything from trauma to nightmares. It seems strange that classical music can have such a big effect. However the doctors say that it clears the mind, helps focusing, and also is very relaxing. It is a great stress reliever and a great way to express emotions. The expression of emotions allows people to open up. For people that have been in traumatic situations opening up is the first step to healing. Classical music opens up options to doctors that might have been really hard to get to.
Classical music is also a great entertainment it is one of the most popular forms of musical entertainment today. Many people enjoy listening to the brilliance of the composers of the classical period. They enjoy listening to music that in some aspects was ahead of its' time. Some people say they not only enjoy the performance, but also the atmosphere of a classical music concert. It is a formal concert where people sit and just absorb great music.
Classical music is a creative expression, which many artists are using today. Coolio used a little bit of classical music in one of his songs. I think that new artist are using classical music to express themselves in a new way. The artists that are beginning to use classical music are trying to make great music like the original composers once did. I think that the more the artist use classical music the more the artist express his desire to expand their musical talent. It is also a sign of maturity. It is a sign of maturity because once people have settled down they can appreciate everything that went into classical music. It is also a sign of maturity because it takes patients to really understand the music, and people have more patients when they are a bit maturer.
Personally classical music has never really interested me. However learning more about the history and what the music means has made me respect the music more. I am not saying that I am going to listen to the music but I won't say I hate it because I don't. I think that it isn't a type of music that interests me because I am the type of person that likes thing a little plain and simple and classical music is a little to complicate. The thing that interests me about classical music is the effect it has on young children. It is something that I might have my children listen to at a young age. At this point and time in my life I don't particularly have an interest in this music and I think it might be because I have been brought up listening to other types of music.
The importance of classical music in my opinion is whatever importance you personally take out of it. It may make you more intelligent or more relaxed it really all depends on your personality. I have learned if at first you may not think that classical music is important, give it a chance it will grow. And you will soon get a new respect for it. The importance of classical music has helped develop many cultures and ways of life.