by Matthew Hennessey

Created on: December 04, 2008   Last Updated: September 12, 2009

I do love classical music, and most every other musical style, as they all have their merits. But notice that I mention 'style' rather than 'genre.' To me, a music genre is a particular category of music such as rock, jazz, rap, folk, country, classical, etc. But these can also be defined as musical performance and writing styles, and that is where I think some folks become confused.

A recent example of my own experience would be the Trans-Siberian Orchestra. I have performed with some of the band members in a past life, and saw them in Florida in 2008. TSO has been be categorized as a modern classical band, but use elements of rock, metal, classical, jazz, acapella, and new age. Given this example, what are we really talking about here? There are many country artists who use elements of rock, many rock artists using elements of jazz, many rap artists using elements of most anything, but they still fall under their particular music category.

Classical music, when defined as a musical style is not dead. It is a particular way of writing, and a performance discipline. Classical music as a category or genre is also not dead, as it still is enjoyed by millions of people. I think the real issue are the 'classics.' A classic can be considered as music that was not written recently, but still enjoys a following. I do agree, and have often written about the fact, that we should all stay current in our choices of music and the arts. If f we do not support modern artists, we threaten the future of our culture.

Those of you who have read my work, probably know that I am a 'new music snob' and generally frown upon embracing the 'classics' as the only music some people listen to. However, classic music in any form, including traditional classical music, is an important part of our history, and should be revisited, studied, and enjoyed by everyone. My own collection ranges from traditional classical music, modern experimental music, and everything in between. I listen to and appreciate all music for different reasons, and enjoy seeing the Boston Symphony Orchestra as much as I do the newest and weirdest experimental punk bands.

So to put this all together, at least in my own mind: No musical category, form, or style is truly dead. The true music lover's trait is one of appreciating music of every style, form, and genre from every period in history. You don't have to like it all, I certainly don't, but I take it for what it is...an artistic expression. We may not always understand or embrace it, but it still means (or has meant) something to someone, and collectively we're all a part of that.

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