MUS 048 Chapter 5: Musical Style
14 Sep 2017
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Style - another general term, but necessary; the combination of qualities that make it distinctive. (example: having a certain fashion style by color and contrast, shaped by decisions) One composer can favor jagged rhythms while another may favor smoother forms. The type of emotional expression that is cultivated is important determinant of music. A distinction can be made between the musical style and the style of a historical period. Example: handel"s manner of writing falls within the baroque style of his day. However, his style was unique and it"s those features in particular that embody his musical genius. In any historical period or place, musical style bears some relation to the lifestyle in general. The point clearest with popular music, where distinct worlds are evoked by rock, rap, and country music, to say nothing of earlier styles such as rhythm and blues (r&b) or swing in 1930s.
