Classical Music Month

  An ode to classical music

Picture of Amelia Major

One of the oldest genres of music that is still widely listened to today is classical music. Classical is a genre of music that has profoundly shaped the cultural and artistic landscape of the world. Its rich and intricate history has influenced many artists to create pieces appreciated globally.

As long as humans have been on Earth, we’ve been making music. The oldest musical instrument in the world was found in Divje Babe, a cave near Cerkno, Slovenia. It was a flute – a woodwind instrument commonly used in classical music, believed to have been made by Neanderthals over 60,000 years ago. This discovery shows us just how long we have been interested in creating classical music, although we can imagine it sounds very different now.

On the Spotify platform, there are over 6,000 recognised music genres. Classical music remains a popular genre on the service, there for those longing for serene and timeless masterpieces. A 2024 study conducted by the Association of British Orchestras showed that 71% of Brits have said classical music amplifies the big moments in our lives, from weddings and funerals, to sporting events and national ceremonies. It may not be the top choice for everyone to listen to everyday, but it is certainly the soundtrack to big days for some. Moreover, 65% of people within the study believe that classical music is under-appreciated today.

So how has Classical music been able to stand the test of time?

Classical music is a powerful genre that has numerous benefits, not just for us humans, but for our plants and four legged friends too. It can even change the spending habits of shoppers and those partial to eating out.

Playing classic music has the ability to elevate an atmosphere. A 2021 survey[i] revealed that 31% of diners feel more inclined to order more expensive dishes when hearing classical music in a restaurant. Classical music has been associated with elegance and sophistication for centuries, so it is no surprise that hearing these soothing melodies can make people feel more affluent while dining. 

When it comes to flora, classical music also comes out on top. Mr Plant Geek, PPL PRS’s gardening expert provides an insight into the benefits that music can have on plant life. According to an October 2022 survey, 45% of gardening enthusiasts in the UK know that playing music around plants can aid in their growth, with 82% of respondents saying they do choose to play music while gardening. The most effective way to do this would be to place a wireless speaker close enough for the soundwaves to pass through to the stems and roots, play some classical music for just 3-4 hours a day, and watch your flowers bloom. Different genres can have different effects depending on the plant, for example, marigolds appear to react best to meditation music, whereas roses seem to respond the best to classical music, specifically the violin.

Classical music also has a great effect on our four-legged friends, calming them down in stressful situations. One of PPL PRS’s success stories is with Calder Vets. Natalie McQuire, their Lead Veterinary Surgeon, says that using a streaming service that plays mainly classical music has a calming effect, especially on their cat ward where it has a huge benefit on their feline patients’ wellbeing.

A particularly worrisome time for pet owners comes at the end of year, with Halloween, Bonfire Night, Christmas and New Year’s celebrations bringing lively parties and fireworks. According to a 2022 survey of 400 dog owners in the UK, 64.8% of people said that fireworks cause their pets to feel more anxious and stressed than a trip to the vets or being left home alone. However, playing music has been proven to chill them out, with 44.1% of dog owners choosing to play classical music to help calm down their dogs.

Marianne Rizkallah is an expert music therapist, who offers knowledge on how music therapy affects the brain. She found that classical music is great for staying productive, and keeping focused. “Classical music is often instrumental, which is less of a distraction than music with lyrics, and has lots of repeated sections, so your ear can predict what’s coming next and isn’t listening out for too many tricks. While the volume in classical music can suddenly go up and down, if you choose “normalised” versions of your favourite pieces that means the volume has been smoothed out. The timbre or sound palate is often very smooth and lovely to have on in the background.”

Today, classical music continues to evolve, incorporating influences from various genres, cultures, and technological advancements. Composers have contributed to the ongoing transformation of the classical music landscape.

The history of classical music is a testament to human creativity and the power of musical expression. Each period brought new innovations and contributions that have shaped the music we know and love today, so Classical Music Month is a great time to show our love and appreciation for the genre.

References

[1] A survey of 2,101 UK respondents by Perspectus Global in September 2021. 

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