Is Classical Music Dead?

After reading Mr. Daniel Wakin's article in the New York Times entitled "High Notes and Low Points for Classical Music" (12/22/2011), I felt it necessary to comment on this state of affairs. In his editorial, the writer lists the top news stories from the Classical music world. Unfortunately, one cannot miss the terrible financial distresses in which many orchestras find themselves today. Mr. Wakin particularly mentions the disasters that befell the Syracuse, New Mexico, Louisville, Utica, and even the Philadelphia orchestras. Then, there is also the Detroit Symphony, which only recently has been struggling to regain its footing.

For years, naysayers have been predicting the death of classical music. Many cite graying audiences, "expensive" tickets (never mind that pop concerts and sports games can cost much more), and a general lack of interest among the public in quality music.

It is also certainly easy and comfortable for us to put up our hands, shrug, and blame the difficult economy for the woes of the above orchestras. Yet, I find it necessary to dig deeper as we examine why this has happened.

Wedding Ceremony Music - The Benefits To Using Classical Music

The selection of appropriate music to complement the style of wedding ceremony is vitally important to the success of the day. Many traditional church wedding ceremonies are considered to be quiet and solemn in their style, this can be contributed to the ceremony being viewed as a religious rite or sacrament. The music used does not have to be used continuously throughout the entire ceremony but rather at key points to compliment the significance of that part of the ceremony. In most traditional weddings the use of classical music is opted for as this helps create the solemn atmosphere to highlight the serious nature of the wedding ceremony.

Classical music is ideal to be performed at wedding ceremonies because it has the ability to set various moods to directly target the part of the ceremony it is being used.The use of various instrumentation and songs from various time periods (Baroque, Classical, Romantic) can all be effective ways to cause diversity and compliment specific moments.To create a romantic atmosphere the use of violin, piano, and harp are highly effective. For a spiritual and solemn mood, you may choose songs arranged for the instrumentation of organ and strings.  During the exchanging of vows, lighting of the candle, and wearing of rings, flute or piano can be played as background to add serenity and solemnity, it is important that this music does not overpower the people speaking otherwise it will become a distraction that will overpower the most important part of the wedding ceremony.

The inclusion of classical music at the wedding reception can add a degree of style, class and elegance to your wedding reception. Hiring musicians such as a string trio or quartet to play as guests arrive or even throughout the dinner would leave a lasting effect on your family and guests for many years to come. The use of a classical ensemble in this way would work well if used in conjunction with other entertainment, such as a live band (either jazz or popular) or a disc-jockey. This increased diversity in entertainment throughout the night manages to provide the ideal musical backing for every part of the evening from the entrance to the first dance and cutting of the cake right through to the bride and groom's departure at the end of the evening.