Classical music is a genre of music that originated in Western culture and is characterized by a complex and sophisticated musical structure. It is typically performed by trained musicians playing orchestral instruments such as strings, woodwinds, brass, and percussion. The music is usually written in traditional forms such as sonata, symphony, concerto, and opera, and often incorporates a wide range of dynamics, tonalities, and tempos.
Classical music has a long and rich history that spans several centuries, from the Baroque era of composers like Bach and Handel, through the Classical era of Mozart and Haydn, and on to the Romantic era of Beethoven and Brahms. It continues to be performed and appreciated by audiences around the world today.
In addition to orchestral music, classical music also includes vocal music such as operas, choral works, and art songs. Many of the most famous classical compositions have become iconic pieces of music that are instantly recognizable to people from all walks of life.