1. Time Period
- Modern Era: This era generally refers to the period from the late 18th century onwards, specifically after the French Revolution. It is characterized by significant developments in technology, science, and cultural change.
- Classical Era: The Classical Era refers to a period in Western music that lasted from around 1750 to 1830. It was characterized by a renewed interest in the ideals and principles of classical antiquity.
2. Music Characteristics
a. Melody and Harmony:
- Modern Era: Music in the modern era is more diverse, with a wide range of styles, experimental techniques, and compositional approaches. Melodies and harmonies are often complex, with the exploration of new chord structures, tonalities, and timbres.
- Classical Era: The classical era was focused on clarity and balance. Melodies were clear, singable, and often symmetrical. Harmony was often limited to simple chord progressions and cadences.
b. Instrumentation:
- Modern Era: Modern music utilizes a vastly expanded range of instruments and sound sources, including electronic instruments, synthesizers, and electronic music techniques.
- Classical Era: The classical era predominantly featured traditional instruments such as the piano, violin, cello, flute, and other orchestral instruments.
3. Structure:
- Modern Era: Music in the modern era can range from short experimental pieces to multi-movement works. Structures can be complex, non-linear, and sometimes intentionally fragmentary.
- Classical Era: The classical era emphasized clarity and balance in structure. Pieces often followed established forms such as the sonata-allegro form or the symphony.
4. Influence:
- Modern Era: Modern music has been influenced by diverse sources, including global music traditions, technological innovations, and cultural movements.
- Classical Era: Music from the classical era drew inspiration from the rich musical traditions of the Baroque era and sought to revive the principles of classical antiquity.
5. Cultural Context:
- Modern Era: The modern era has seen many social, political, and technological changes that have impacted the cultural context of music. This era is marked by a greater diversity and inclusivity of musical styles.
- Classical Era: The classical era was rooted in the Enlightenment and the rise of instrumental music as an art form. Patronage from nobility and the emergence of the public concert contributed to its development.
In essence, the modern era offers a wide spectrum of diverse musical expressions, reflects cultural changes, and embraces experimentation and technological advancements, while the classical era refers to a specific period characterized by a focus on clarity, balance, and the revival of classical ideals.