1. Rhythmic Innovation: Stravinsky's music is characterized by complex rhythms and meter changes. His use of polyrhythms and irregular time signatures brought new rhythmic possibilities to the forefront of Western classical music.
2. Formal Experimentation: Stravinsky challenged traditional musical forms, experimenting with new structures and abandoning conventional patterns. His works, like the "Rite of Spring" (1913), showcased unconventional structures that broke away from the traditional sonata form.
3. Dissonance and Atonality: Stravinsky's music often featured dissonant harmonies and atonal passages. He moved beyond the traditional tonal system and explored harmonic ambiguity, creating tension and a sense of disorientation.
4. Primitivism and Folk Influences: Stravinsky drew inspiration from folk music, particularly Russian and Eastern European melodies, rhythms, and instruments. This influence is evident in works such as "The Firebird" (1910), "Petrushka" (1911), and "The Rite of Spring."
5. Ballet Music Transformation: Stravinsky collaborated extensively with the impresario Sergei Diaghilev and his Ballets Russes. His ballet scores revolutionized the genre by incorporating complex rhythmic and harmonic elements, unconventional musical structures, and a fusion of classical and folk influences.
6. Neoclassical Period: In the 1920s, Stravinsky entered his neoclassical period, inspired by the music of the 18th century, particularly J.S. Bach. During this phase, he paid homage to classical forms and techniques while incorporating modernist elements.
7. Serialism and Beyond: In his later works, Stravinsky experimented with serialism, a compositional method based on organizing and manipulating a series of pitches. However, he did not adhere strictly to any single technique and continued to explore various musical idioms throughout his career.
8. Diverse Influences: Stravinsky's music reflects a wide range of influences, from Russian folklore to jazz and American popular music. His eclecticism and willingness to incorporate diverse elements into his compositions contributed to his unique musical style.
Stravinsky's groundbreaking compositions challenged traditional musical norms and expanded the boundaries of classical music expression. His influence continues to inspire composers and musicians, leaving a lasting legacy on the development of 20th-century music.