subject: Learn The Basics Of Appreciating Classical Music [print this page] Listen to the Entire Piece - Classical music tells a story. The entire song is a journey that you have to follow. Todays music is all about a hook, something that sticks in your head and is easy to hum along to after one listen. When you listen to a classical performance, try to reserve your judgement and dont focus on each note, listen to the song as a whole and see where the composer has taken you. Find an online classical music store where you can download your favorite songs to listen to again and again, until you know the whole song..
Picture the Composer Writing - The composer of the piece you are hearing likely had a passion for what they were doing and put themselves into their work. They likely wrote the music in a torrent, dashing notes onto a piece of paper as inspiration struck them. They could hear the music in their head and had to get it onto paper before it faded. Hopefully they were able to capture its essence and the orchestra is doing their part to bring it to life.
Listen for Each Instrument Type - In many songs, each type of instrument will get their chance to shine. Theyll have a solo, or a part where they are the main instrument that you can hear. Listen closely as each performer plays together in harmony. Think about all of the hours of practice that these performers put in so that it sounds as good as it does. No other form of music requires this level of dedication. A good classical music store will have pieces that feature many different types of instruments for you to enjoy.
Consider the Conductor - The conductor is the ships captain, responsible for bringing it all together and making it sound as the composer intended. If you are watching a live performance watch how they effortlessly direct an entire orchestra to work as one well-oiled machine.
