Classical Music Hits the Top 40
Contents
It’s official – classical music has made it to the Top 40! We explore what this means for the genre, and how to get started listening if you’re not already a fan.
Introduction
Classical music is one of the most beloved and timeless music genres. However, in recent years, it has seen a sharp decline in popularity. In fact, a study conducted by the National Endowment for the Arts found that only 8% of Americans listened to classical music in 2017, down from 14% in 2002.
Despite this decline, there are signs that classical music is making a comeback. In particular, several classical pieces have charted on the Billboard Hot 100 – the first time this has happened in over 50 years.
Here are five classical music hits that have taken the world by storm:
1. “Gymnopédie No. 1” by Erik Satie
2. “Für Elise” by Ludwig van Beethoven
3. “Canon in D Major” by Johann Pachelbel
4. “The Four Seasons: Winter” by Antonio Vivaldi
5. ” requiem Aeternam” – Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
What is classical music?
Classical music is art music produced or rooted in the traditions of Western culture, including both liturgical (religious) and secular music. While a more precise term is also used to refer to the period from 1750 to 1820 (the Classical period), this article is about the broad span of time from before the 6th century AD to the present day, which includes the Classical period and various other periods. The central norms of this tradition became codified between 1550 and 1900, which is known as the common-practice period.
The top 40 chart
Classical music has been popular for centuries, but in recent years, it seems to be making a comeback in the mainstream.
In the past decade or so, several classical pieces have entered the Top 40 chart in the United Kingdom, including Eric Satie’s “Gymnopedie No. 1,” which reached number nine in 2009, and Pachelbel’s “Canon in D,” which peaked at number 36 in 2012.
In the United States, meanwhile, two classical pieceshave been adapted as pop songs and have become hits on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. In 2000, Andrea Bocelli’s rendition of “Con te partirò” (originally written by Italian composer Francesco Sartori) reached number 16, and Josh Groban’s cover of “You Raise Me Up” (originally written by Norwegian-Irish duo Brendan Graham and Rolf Løvland) reached number four in 2003.
It seems that classical music is finally starting to get the attention it deserves from the mainstream music industry! Who knows, maybe we’ll see even more classical hits in the years to come.
The benefits of listening to classical music
Classical music has long been known for its calming and relaxing effects, and recent studies have shown that it can actually have a positive impact on our health. Listening to classical music has been shown to lower blood pressure, decrease stress levels, and promote overall well-being.
In addition to its physical benefits, classical music can also improve mental function and cognitive performance. Studies have shown that listening to classical music can improve memory, increase focus and concentration, and boost creativity. So if you’re looking for a creative boost or just want to relax and de-stress, put on your favorite classical tunes and enjoy!
How to get started with classical music
There are many ways to get started with classical music. One way is to find a radio station that specializes in classical music, or to find a streaming service that offers a classical music channel. You can also look for online resources that offer streaming classical music, or download classical music files to your computer or mobile device.
If you’re not sure where to start, a good place to begin is with the top 40 most popular classical pieces, as compiled by Classic FM. This list includes well-known works by some of the most famous composers in history, including Bach, Beethoven, and Mozart. Familiarize yourself with these pieces, and then explore other works by these and other composers.
As you listen to classical music, you may want to keep a notebook handy so you can jot down the names of pieces you enjoy. You can then look up these pieces and learn more about them. You may also want to join a local classical music club or group so you can meet other people who share your interest in this genre of music.
The future of classical music
In recent years, classical music has seen a resurgence in popularity, with more and more people rediscovering the joys of listening to classical tunes. This trend looks set to continue, as more and more young people are turning to classical music as a way to relax and unwind.
There are many reasons for this renewed interest in classical music. In an age of increasing stress and anxiety, people are looking for ways to relax and escape the pressures of daily life. Classical music is the perfect remedy, as it has been shown to have a calming effect on the mind and body.
What’s more, classical music is proven to boost brain power, making it the perfect choice for students who want to improve their grades. Studies have shown that listening to classical music can help students focus and retain information better than those who don’t listen to any music at all.
So if you’re looking for a way to relieve stress, boost your brain power, or just enjoy some beautiful music, then turn on your favorite classical station and let the relaxing strains of Mozart, Bach, or Beethoven wash over you.
