What Word Crush Fans Need to Know About Classical Music

If you’re a fan of the game Word Crush, then you know that one of the hardest levels is the Classical Music category. But what do you really need to know about classical music to beat this level? Here are some essential facts that will help you get past that pesky level once and for all!

Introduction

If you’re a fan of the game Word Crush, then you’ve probably already figured out that a lot of the clues are based on classical music. In fact, one of the game’s most popular categories is called “Pieces of Music,” and it features clues like “Opera That Ends Tragically” and “The Nutcracker Ballet.”

If you don’t know much about classical music, don’t worry — you’re not alone. In fact, a lot of people who play Word Crush probably can’t tell a Bach Prelude from a Beethoven Symphony. But if you want to up your game, it might be time to learn a little bit about the world of classical music. Here are some basics that every Word Crush fan should know.

Classical music is generally divided into two periods: the Baroque period (roughly 1600-1750) and the Classical period (1750-1820). The word “baroque” comes from the Portuguese word for “oddly shaped pearl,” which is fitting because this period was known for its ornate style and complex notation. The most famous composers from this period include Johann Sebastian Bach, George Frideric Handel, and Antonio Vivaldi.

The Classical period was marked by simplicity and balance, in contrast to the Baroque period’s elaborate style. This is the period when Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Ludwig van Beethoven composed some of their most famous works.

In the early 1800s, composers began to experiment with longer, more complex pieces of music — a style that came to be known as Romanticism. The most famous Romantic composers include Frederic Chopin, Franz Liszt, and Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky.

The last major period of classical music is called Modernism, which began around 1890 and lasted until World War II. This was a time when composers were pushing boundaries and experimenting with new sounds and techniques. Some of the most famous Modernist composers include Sergei Prokofiev, Igor Stravinsky, and Arnold Schoenberg.

The Benefits of Listening to Classical Music

There are many benefits of listening to classical music. Studies have shown that classical music can help you focus, concentrate, and even study better. It can also reduce stress and anxiety levels. Listening to classical music can also help you sleep better.

Improved sleep quality

A study published in 2016 found that listening to classical music before sleep improved sleep quality. The participants in the study who listened to classical music fell asleep faster and slept more deeply than those who did not listen to music. In addition, they reported feeling more rested when they woke up in the morning.

If you are having trouble sleeping, or if you simply want to improve the quality of your sleep, try listening to classical music before going to bed. You may find that it makes a world of difference.

Increased focus and concentration

Classical music has been shown to increase focus and concentration. A study published in 2009 found that when participants listened to Mozart’s Sonata for Two Pianos in D Major, they were better able to solve spatial reasoning problems. Other studies have shown that classical music can increase blood flow to the brain and improve serotonin levels, both of which have been linked to increased focus.

Decreased stress and anxiety

It’s no secret that listening to music can have a positive effect on your mood. But did you know that classical music in particular can be beneficial for your mental health? Studies have shown that listening to classical music can decrease stress and anxiety, and improve cognitive performance.

So if you’re feeling overwhelmed, try putting on some Bach or Beethoven and see how you feel afterwards. You might just find that it helps you get through your day a little bit easier.

Enhanced memory and cognitive function

There is a growing body of evidence that suggests that listening to classical music can have a positive impact on memory and cognitive function. A study published in the journal PLOS One found that listening to classical music improved participants’ ability to recall words and sequence numbers, and also made them more creative when solving problems.

Another study, published in the journal Neurology, found that listening to classical music improved participants’ scores on tests of working memory, executive function (the ability to plan and organize), and verbal intelligence. The researchers believe that the beneficial effects of classical music on cognitive function may be due to the fact that it activates both sides of the brain.

So if you’re looking for a way to improve your memory and cognitive function, put on your favorite classical tunes and let the music work its magic!

The Best Times to Listen to Classical Music

Classical music can be enjoyed at different times of the day or night, in many different settings. Whether you are trying to focus on a project, wind down from a long day, or just relax, there is a piece of classical music that can fit the bill. Check out a few of our suggestions for the best times to listen to classical music.

Before studying or working

Listening to classical music before studying or working can help you focus and concentrate. The music can also help to increase your attention span. One study found that people who listened to classical music before taking a test scored higher than those who did not listen to music.

There are many pieces of classical music that are perfect for studying or working. If you’re not sure where to start, try some of these pieces:

-Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5 in C Minor
-Mozart’s Symphony No. 40 in G Minor
-Bach’s Goldberg Variations
-Chopin’s Etude in E Major, Op. 10 No. 3

While relaxing or doing a hobby

There’s no wrong time to listen to classical music, but some moments are better than others. If you’re looking for the perfect time to enjoy your favorite classical tunes, here are a few suggestions:

-While relaxing: Classical music can be very calming, so it’s great to listen to while you’re taking a break. Whether you’re taking a baths, reading a book, or just spending time alone, classical music will help you relax.

-While doing a hobby: Whether you’re painting, gardening, or working on a puzzle, classical music can make your hobby more enjoyable. The melodies can help you focus and forget about the outside world for awhile.

-Before bed: Listening to classical music before bed can help you sleep better. The calm tones can ease you into a restful state and help you drift off to sleep.

While commuting

Classical music can be the perfect way to relax, focus, or celebrate while commuting. But what are the best times to listen to classical music while commuting?

The morning commute is often a time when people are trying to get pumped up for the day ahead. If you’re looking for an energizing start to your day, listening to classical music in the morning can be a great way to get going. Some of the best pieces of classical music to listen to while commuting in the morning include Beethoven’s Symphony No. 7, Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake Suite, and Wagner’s Ride of the Valkyries.

On the other hand, the evening commute is often a time when people are trying to wind down from their day. If you’re looking for a way to relax and de-stress, listening to classical music in the evening can be a great way to do that. Some of the best pieces of classical music to listen to while commuting in the evening include Brahms’ Lullaby, Debussy’s Clair de Lune, and Pachelbel’s Canon in D.

So whether you’re looking for a way to get pumped up or wind down, there’s a piece of classical music out there that can help you do it. So next time you find yourself stuck in traffic, try listening to some classical music and see how it affects your commute.

The Different Types of Classical Music

Baroque

The Baroque period of classical music is usually thought to have begun in the early 1600s and ended in the late 1700s. The word “baroque” comes from the Portuguese word for a misshapen pearl, and it was first used to describe this period of music in the late 1800s. Baroque music is known for its ornate, often complex melodies and harmonies. It was during this time that the modern orchestra began to take shape, and some of the most famous classical composers, such as Johann Sebastian Bach and George Frideric Handel, wrote their most famous pieces.

Classical

Classical music is a broad term that usually refers to Western musical traditions from the fifth century to the present. This period includes the Medieval, Renaissance, Baroque, Classical, and Romantic eras, as well as many other sub-genres. Classical music has been around for centuries and has had a major influence on other genres, such as jazz and rock.

There are many different types of classical music, each with its own unique history and characteristics. Below is a list of some of the most popular types of classical music:

-Medieval music (c. 500-1400): This is the earliest period of classical music and includes chants and hymns such as Gregorian chants.

-Renaissance music (c. 1400-1600): This period saw the development of polyphony (multiple independent melodic lines) and the invention of musical instruments such as the violin, recorder, and piano.

-Baroque music (c. 1600-1750): This period is characterized by elaborate ornamental visuals in both the musical score and performance. Baroque composers include Johann Sebastian Bach and George Frideric Handel.

-Classical music (c. 1750-1820): This period saw a return to simpler forms after the elaborate Baroque style. Composers from this era include Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Ludwig van Beethoven, and Franz Schubert.

-Romantic music (c. 1820-1910): This was a time of increased emotionality in both the music and lyrics compared to previous periods. Romantic composers include Frederic Chopin, Johannes Brahms, and Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky.

Romantic

The Romantic Period of classical music is from about 1815-1910. This was a time when composers were influenced by their emotions and imagination. They wrote music that was expressive and personal. The melodies were often very beautiful, and the harmonies (chords) were more complicated than in earlier periods of classical music. The forms of Romantic music were also more varied than in earlier periods. Some of the composers who wrote during the Romantic Period include Beethoven, Schubert, Chopin, Mendelssohn, Brahms, Tchaikovsky, and Pablo de Sarasate.

Modern

Modern classical music is a broad term that can refer to a variety of different styles and sub-genres. While it is often considered to be music that was composed in the 20th century or later, some historians and musicologists would argue that it actually began in the 18th century with the early works of Haydn, Mozart, and Beethoven.

With such a wide time frame to consider, it’s no wonder that modern classical music can be quite varied in style. Some common sub-genres include impressionism, expressionism, minimalism, serialism, neo-classicism, and post-modernism.

While some modern classical composers sought to break away from the traditional rules and forms of earlier periods, others borrowed heavily from those past styles while still adding their own unique spin. This makes modern classical music an incredibly rich and diverse genre that has something to offer everyone.

The Top 10 Classical Music Pieces of All Time

Classical music is timeless. Sure, some pieces may be a little newer than others, but the best ones have stood the test of time. They’re the pieces that have been performed over and over again, the ones that people just can’t get enough of. If you’re a fan of word crush, then you need to check out these 10 classical music pieces.

Canon in D by Johann Pachelbel

This piece is also known as the “wedding canon” because of its popularity at weddings. It is a pleasant, uncomplicated piece that is perfect for beginners to classical music.

Moonlight Sonata by Ludwig van Beethoven

It is said that Ludwig van Beethoven composed the Moonlight Sonata to impress a young Hungarian countess named Giulietta Guicciardi. The work was published in 1802 as Opus 27, No. 2, and was dedicated to Guicciardi.

The first movement, marked Adagio sostenuto, is written in 3/4 time and in the key of C# minor. The slow, meditative nature of the piece is dictated by the tempo marking, which instructs the performer to play “at a walking pace.” This opening section features a simple left-hand melody that moves up and down the scale over restless harmonic changes in the right hand.

The second movement, marked Allegretto, is written in 2/4 time and in the key of G major. This lighter section provides a contrast to the first movement with its more playful mood and dance-like feel. The right-hand melody bounces along over cheerful chords in the left hand.

The third and final movement, marked Presto agitato, is written in 2/4 time and once again in C# minor. This movement is the shortest of the three, but it is also the most intense. The tempo marking instructs the performer to play “agitato” (agitated) with constant motion throughout. The left-hand melody is once again quite simple, while the right hand weaves an elaborate web of figuration above it.

Symphony No. 5 by Ludwig van Beethoven

widely considered one of the most important and iconic classical music pieces of all time, and serves as a perfect introduction to the genre for those who are not familiar. The piece was composed in the early 1800s and is still widely performed today. It is characterized by its famous opening four notes, which are often described as sounding “fate knocking at the door.”

Für Elise by Ludwig van Beethoven

Few pieces of classical music are as recognizable – or as popular – as Für Elise. This simple, beautiful melody has been heard countless times on the radio, in ads, and in movies. Even people who don’t know much about classical music usually know a little bit about Für Elise.

Though it is one of his most famous pieces, we actually don’t know a whole lot about Für Elise. Ludwig van Beethoven composed the piece sometime around 1810, but it wasn’t published until 1867 – nearly 40 years after his death. We don’t know who the “Elise” of the title was, though there are a few theories. One popular theory is that she was a wealthy young woman named Therese Malfatti whom Beethoven had tried (and failed) to court.

Whoever she was, it’s clear that Beethoven was deeply inspired by her. Für Elise is one of the most beautiful and moving pieces of classical music ever written. It’s no wonder that it continues to be one of the most popular pieces of music, nearly 200 years after it was composed.

A Little Night Music by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

A Little Night Music, Serenade No. 13 for strings in G major, K. 525, is a 1787 composition for an unspecified ensemble by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. The German title Eine kleine Nachtmusik means “a little serenade”, though it is often rendered more literally as “a little night music”. The work is written in the key of G major and consists of four movements:

Allegro – A fast, upbeat movement in common time.
Romanza – A slower, more intimate movement in cut time.
Menuetto – A minuet and trio in moderate tempo.
Rondo – A quick, light movement with a cheerful mood.

A Little Night Music is one of Mozart’s most popular works, and it has been featured prominently in popular culture, including films such as Elvira Madigan, Slacker, and The Hunger Games: Catching Fire.

The Four Seasons by Antonio Vivaldi

No list of classical pieces would be complete without including The Four Seasons by Antonio Vivaldi. This is one of the most popular and well-known classical pieces of all time, and for good reason. The Four Seasons is a set of four violin concertos that were composed in the early 18th century. Each concerto is associated with a different season of the year, and Vivaldi does an incredible job of capturing the feeling of each season in his music. The Four Seasons is an incredibly beautiful and moving piece of music, and it is sure to delight any classical music fan.

The Nutcracker by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky

The Nutcracker is a ballet composed by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. It was first performed in 1892. The story is based on E.T.A. Hoffmann’s 1850 fairy tale “The Nutcracker and the Mouse King”. The ballet is about a young girl, Clara, who is given a nutcracker doll that comes to life and takes her on a magical journey.

The music of The Nutcracker is some of the most popular and well-known classical music in the world. The suite from the ballet, which includes “The Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy” and “Waltz of the Flowers”, is often played at holiday concerts and events.

Carmen Suite No. 1 by Georges Bizet

This list would not be complete without the inclusion of Carmen Suite No. 1 by Georges Bizet. This opera was first performed in 1875 and is still one of the most popular pieces of classical music today. The story is based on the novel by Prosper Mérimée and tells the story of a gypsy woman who seduces a soldier and ultimately leads to his downfall.

The Rite of Spring by Igor Stravinsky

Igor Stravinsky’s 1913 ballet score The Rite of Spring is one of the most influential and important pieces of classical music ever written. Not only did it ushered in a new era of modernism in music, but it also had a profound impact on the world of dance and ballet. Surprisingly, though, it was not well-received when it was first debuted in Paris – audiences were so shocked by its radicalism that they caused riots! Nevertheless, The Rite of Spring is now widely considered to be one of the greatest classical music pieces of all time.

Pictures at an Exhibition by Modest Mussorgsky

One of the most popular and well-known classical pieces, “Pictures at an Exhibition” by Modest Mussorgsky is a must-know for any fan of the genre. The piece was composed in 1874 as a memorial to his friend, artist Viktor Hartmann, who had died suddenly of an aneurysm. Hartmann was a close friend of Mussorgsky’s, and the two often collaborated on art and music projects.