Eras of Music History Grade 9 Music

Musical Eras: There are 7 distinct eras of music history: – Antiquity (before 400) – Middle Ages (400 – 1400) – Renaissance (1400 – 1600) – Baroque (1600 – 1750) – Classical (1750 – 1850) – Romantic (1820 – 1900) – Modern or 20th Century (1900 – present)

Antiquity

Antiquity (before 400) The history of music begins with the history of humankind. It was unlikely that music was ever played purely for pleasure during Antiquity.

What was Music used for? Music would have been used for the following purposes: – Communication or signaling. – Accompaniment for work. – Accompaniment for rituals of ceremony and religion.

Chinese Music Can be traced back at least 4000 years. Development of the PENTATONIC (5 note) scale.

Egyptian Music Musicians were second class only to royalty. Musicians were usually women.

Hebrew Music Music was associated with religion. There are many references in the Old Testament to music, dancing, and musical instruments.

Greek Music The word “MUSIC” comes from the Greek word “MOUSIKE”. Music was played at festivals and plays. Music contests took place at the Olympic Games.

Roman Music Based on the music of the Greeks. Music was used mostly for military and entertainment purposes.