What do you think of when you hear the phrase “Classical music”?   It could mean a lot of different things to different people.  Some may think of the music commonly called “elevator music”, while some are thinking about their own preference of music as classical.  Some may be thinking of a soft instrumental only music while others are thinking of music with words that inspire.  

The term “classical music” wasn't used until the  19th century.  The Western tradition of music began with roots in the monophonic chant tradition with the early Christian era and continued to develop through the centuries into the different styles of polyphonic liturgical.  Each century added its own twist and texture to the music tradition until what some call the ultimate in classical music which dominated the 19th Century; the mix of classical and romantic music of Beethoven.   Though Ludwig Van Beethoven died in 1827, his name and music continues to be and icon of what is known as classical music.  

Classical music has had a large influence on our music society and now has incorporated other modern music as a mix.  The popularity of jazz and blues has been combined with classical to create a new sound that is appealing to many.  No matter what music changes are made in this world, there will never be a time when classical music is not influencing the art of music.