Introduction to contemporary classical music

As with every artistic movement, there is debate about the beginnings of the contemporary classical movement in music. Some say that it began after 1945, others that it began in the 1970s. The movement has manifested itself in various stylistic forms, including a continuation of modern avant-garde music and experimental music.  

Some argue against the term ‘contemporary classical’ as it can be seen as misleading. This is because classical music, by definition, is music that follows the traditions of Western liturgical and secular music but the avant-garde and experimental ideals of the contemporary classical movement aim to move away from this traditional structure. Therefore, the term used to describe the movement is problematic.

To find out more, you can take part in discussions and listen to music at www.contemporary-classical.com/, www.sequenza21.com/forum/.../contemporary-classical-music/ and www.facebook.com/.../Contemporary-classical-music/109713522387790.

Contemporary classical music has been used in several films and television programmes: for example, 2001: A Space Odyssey and The Shining both use Gyorgy Ligeti’s music. Sex in the City uses Gunnar Madsen’s ‘Anna’ in the episode entitled ‘La Douleur Exquise’ at the end of Season 2, and some of Gunnar’s other music features in films such as Breaking the Rules, The Break Up and Just a Kiss.