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Steven Truong


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Why is it that classical music is now ignored by the majority of society?

Sure, classical music still exists and is still evolving with new compositions. However, this perennial genre of music has been evidently on the decline with the rise of other types of music that is unfortunately promoted over classical music. I understand that with new generations come new tastes due to media and pop culture, but classical music has been preserved prominently from the Baroque period (1600s) well into the Contemporary and Late Romantic era (late 1800s- 1970s ish). I feel as though classical music should be integrated into education (it is in orchestra, choir, band etc) as a core subject as art is necessary along with athletics to foster a well balanced student. Unfortunately, this antiquated music is left behind and I am afraid that it will one day vanish as the number of composers are dwindling. What are your thoughts on this?


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    Jul 25 2013: Here in my country Bhaarath (India), music lovers, esp classic music fans, face the same dilemma. We have not one but two highly involved classical music systems: Hindustaani (Northern) and Carnaatic (Southern). I'm more of a fan of the latter as my own family is heavily involved with this system. And the challenge here is again attracting audiences esp during music festivals, where even top artists draw a modest audience. Again one wonders whether the contemporary Bollywood music, which resonates more with the youngsters of today in my country, will one day be the only form of music of Bhaarath. If that happens, it will be a colossal loss for the world of music and humanity in general.
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      Jul 25 2013: Not really Dr.

      Classical music will live on as its an important aspect of any music.

      Bollywood music might be popular among listeners but don't forget, many are moving to english music and to be honest, I have many friends all over India and none of them listen to Bollywood music and neither do I.

      Bollywood music is actually at risk imo and honestly, bollywood music is very boring since the bollywood music is just nonsense. The lyrics are bad, the music too. Anyway, classical fans will live on and pass the knowledge to any wannabe musician as its an integral part of any music.
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        Jul 26 2013: I disagree with ur views concerning Bollywood music. Yes, the Bollywood music of today has stepped down to crass dance beats from its previous lofty standards set in the 60s, and 70s. That way even Western Rock and pop have stepped down from their dizzy heights that they soared to in the 60s, 70s, and 80s. 80s pop and rock are some of the most melodious tunes out there. Most of today's western music is insipid. Regardless, I urgeU to listen to the timeless Bollywood melodies of old, esp those sung by the likes of Kishore, Lata, Rafi and others and those composed by the erstwhile RD Burman. U may have a completely different opinion of Bollywood music.
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          Jul 27 2013: I do have a different opinion.
          And thats the generation gap. Which I'm positive I'll face with my kids.

          This gap is why we have different opinions and tastes which then lead to stuff like popularity of classical music being diminished along time.

          Classical music is dying. It won't die but its dying.

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