Neoclassicism and Its Usage

469 Words2 Pages
Neoclassicism is music inspired by the classical era during the early 20th century. It uses classical elements such as the forms and tonal center, adding to the classical structure with modern chromatic elements and use of dissonance. As well as varied rhythms. Ernest Bloch was both neo-classic and neo-romantic, his virtuosity on violin lead to many arranges for the the solo instruments of classical and romantic composers, his fascination with that time period is evident in his music, using classical form with romantic expression. Maurice Ravel, although often cited as an impressionist, is also listed as a neo-classic composer. For example his string quartet follows the tradition of a standard quartet of Mozart, using sonata allegro in the outer movements with tonal centers. The first movement alone could by compared side by side, Ravel begins the piece right off with the first them very tonal, suddenly switch keys to an unrelated key yet resolve at the end of the first section of music back in relation to the key. Igor Stravinsky ballet Pulcinella, taking for Pergolesi, Stravinsky essentially rewrote the music for the ballet borrowing themes and textures, while introducing modern rhythms and harmonies, as well as deceptive cadences. Stravinsky was one of the leading composers of this style while it was first promoted by Alfredo Casella stating music should look back to where it came. Composers then used their music comparatively writing from a more academic approach rather than an expression of their time like composers had done before. Richard Wagner was a German composer of the later 19th century. Being interested in theater, drama, and acting in his teens he became interested in music. He was inspired by Carl Maria von Weber operas and began to compose his own opera in his early 20s. Having little success he eventually became a wanted political criminal
Open Document