Transformation from Pop to Classical Music

My musical journey was a dramatic one, transitioning from a wide array of genres during my younger years to an almost exclusive preference for classical music in my adulthood. This transformation began with my exposure to a new genre that resonated with me deeply, which ultimately led to my decision to pursue a new hobby and deepen my appreciation for a new form of music.

Early Musical Experiences

As a child and teenager, I consumed a variety of musical genres. My musical palette was as diverse as the genres themselves, ranging from rock and its subgenres, Brazilian tropicalia pop, Russian gypsy romances, Indian film music, punk, metal, rap, and country. However, rock and its various subgenres stood out as a constant presence in my auditory landscape. I experimented occasionally with other genres, yet I harbored a particular disdain for classical music. This sentiment held strong until I encountered Dance Macabre: a composition by Camille Saint-Sans that would forever alter my perspective on music.

A Turning Point: A Violin Concert

At the tender age of 23, I experienced a transformative moment during a live performance of Dance Macabre. The impact of that concert was instantaneous, irrevocable. Upon exposure to serious music for the very first time, the majority of the music I had previously enjoyed seemed not just unremarkable, but off-putting. A new phase was dawning in my life, one that was exclusively dedicated to classical music. For a year, classical music was my sole focus, with jazz concerts occasionally breaking the monotony. However, one jazz performance featuring a violist, a pianist, and a singer would eventually lead to a pivotal decision, one that would significantly influence my musical journey. Before I knew it, at the age of 24, I embarked on my own violin journey, an endeavor that has been a defining aspect of my life ever since. Despite initial struggles, I have managed to play recognizable pieces on the violin and have even performed live on several occasions.

The Shift from Pop to Classical

The transition from a predominantly pop music listener to a classical music aficionado was not immediate but gradual. Recognizing that the average pop song has a lifespan of around three months, compared to the centuries-old compositions of Bach, Beethoven, and Brahms, helped me to appreciate the value and resonance of classical works. College provided me with the tools to understand and appreciate music on a deeper level, focusing not just on catchy hooks, but on the compositional value, texture, and arrangement.

The Value of Live Performances

In my experience, the live performances of classical music are incomparable. Listening to a live orchestra or recital, where no amplification is used except for the microphone for the MC, provides a level of richness and depth that cannot be replicated in recorded music. It is this live experience that has led me to realize the sheer injustice of the vast amount of better music that is so easily accessible but often overlooked.

Conclusion

Music is a journey of personal discovery, and as I have matured, my musical tastes have evolved. What started as a fear of classical music became a profound appreciation for it, with live performances serving as the catalyst for this transformation. My story is a testament to the transformative power of music and the enduring beauty of classical compositions.