What exactly is classical music? Is there a clear definition?

Classical music is a huge and mixed system, and it is not clearly defined (the "clear definition" here refers to a strict definition that cannot find exceptions like mathematics). Classical music has only a relatively vague definition. It probably refers to Western traditional music, or serious music developed from the inheritance and innovation of Western traditional music.

Classical music roughly has three characteristics: first, it is systematic, developed from tradition, and theories and creative concepts are constantly inherited and innovated, like a science; second, it is classic , most classical music in the 19th century and before was generally a work that had great social influence and was regarded as a classic and circulated; the third is seriousness. Especially starting from the 18th century, classical music composers in order to pursue innovation They create to express their individuality. They hope to write music that others have never written before and use techniques that others have never used. Other purposes (such as the popularity, entertainment, commercial value of the music, etc.) are secondary.

It must be noted that "classical" is not a time concept, but a cultural concept: "classical music" does not equal "ancient music", and "modern music" is not the antonym of "classical music". If a modern person writes a piece of music based on the creative concept of classical music, the piece of music written will also belong to classical music.

The above may be rather abstract. We can change the perspective and talk about what music is not classical music.

① Chinese traditional music (or Chinese folk music) is not classical music. This is a misunderstanding made by many newbies. Chinese traditional music, such as famous instrumental music such as "High Mountains and Flowing Waters", "Three Plum Blossom Lanes" and "Fishing Boats Sing Evening", as well as music from operas such as Peking Opera and Kunqu Opera, are all part of the Chinese culture, including creative concepts and performances. Techniques, etc. are not directly related to Western traditional music. There is no need for us to give the same name to two unrelated things. In the same way, ancient songs, light music with ancient Chinese styles, etc. are not considered classical music. Moreover, the local traditional music of Japan, India, Arabia, Africa and other countries and regions is not considered classical music. So does China have classical music? Also, if the Chinese compose according to the model of Western traditional music, whether it incorporates traditional Chinese elements or not, it can be considered classical music. For example, the "Butterfly Lovers" Violin Concerto has a Chinese-style melody, but the model is completely from classical music. "Concerto", this can be considered classical music. In the same way, "Yellow River Cantata" can also be regarded as Chinese classical music.

②Light music or new age music does not belong to classical music. Typical representatives of this music include: the music of Richard Clayderman, the music of groups such as Secret Garden and Bandari, the "Night Piano Music" series, etc. These are often simple pieces with very beautiful melodies, and their styles are quite different from classical music.

③Pop songs, rock, heavy metal, jazz, etc. are not considered classical music. They all have their own special creative concepts, which are very different from classical music. Even if some pop songs or rock songs borrow or adapt some classical music melodies, they cannot be considered classical music.

④ Most of the background scores written specifically for film and television dramas, animations, or video games are not classical music. Most of these music focus on popularity and atmosphere, and should match the plot and pictures. The starting point is not for people to take it out and enjoy it specifically. A few very classic film and television drama soundtracks can be considered classical music if they are of high artistic value when viewed individually, such as the film soundtracks written by the 20th century classical music master Shostakovich.