Exploring Music

in the 20th
Century

In this presentation we will take a journey through the world of music in the 20th century, from the
classical compositions to the more modern and experimental sounds of today.
Classical Music's Evolution in the
20th Century
New Sounds, New Minimalism and A Return to
Instruments Avant-Garde Traditional Forms

In the early 20th century, In the second half of the Some composers also chose
classical composers began century, minimalism and to return to a more
experimenting with atonal avant-garde movements traditional style, drawing
and dissonant sounds, as emerged, characterized by inspiration from earlier eras.
well as incorporating new repetitive patterns and
instruments into their experimentation with
compositions. electronic music.
The Characteristics of Modern Music
Breaking with
Tradition
Modern music is characterized
by its breaking of traditional
rules, such as the abandonment
of tonality, and experimentation
with new sounds and structures.
Influence of Cross-Genre
Technology Collaboration
The rise of technology has Modern musicians often blur the
allowed for greater lines between genres, resulting
experimentation and in fusions like hip-hop and
manipulation of sounds in classical, jazz and rock.
modern music, leading to new
genres like electronic and
remixing.
Influence of Technology on Music
1 2 3

Introduction of Synthesisers and Music Streaming and

Recording Electronic Music Social Media

The ability to record and
reproduce music allowed for
mass consumption and
distribution, leading to the
rise of popular music.
The invention of The rise of music streaming
synthesizers and drum services and social media
machines allowed musicians has given independent
to experiment with new musicians the opportunity
sounds and styles, leading to reach new audiences and
to the creation of genres gain recognition.
like techno and house.
Exploring Popular Music Genres in the
20th Century
Rock 'n' Roll Hip-Hop and Rap

Born out of a fusion between rhythm and Emerging from the South Bronx in the 1970s,
blues and country music, rock 'n' roll became hip-hop and rap have evolved into one of the
a cultural phenomenon in the 1950s, with most popular and influential genres of all
musicians like Elvis Presley and Chuck Berry. time, with artists like Tupac and Jay-Z.

Electronic and Dance Music Jazz

Starting with disco in the 1970s, electronic Having its roots in the early 20th century, jazz
and dance music has since branched out into became a subculture and cultural force in the
a plethora of subgenres like trance, techno, 20th century, with greats like Duke Ellington
and dubstep. and Louis Armstrong.
Famous Classical Composers of the
20th Century
1 Igor Stravinsky

The Russian composer is known for his early 20th-century ballets and works like "The
Rite of Spring" and "Firebird Suite."

2 Arnold Schoenberg

The Austrian composer was one of the founders of atonal music and invented the
twelve-tone system.

3 John Williams

The American composer has scored some of the most iconic movie soundtracks of all
time, including Star Wars, Harry Potter, and Jurassic Park.

4 Philip Glass

The American minimalist composer is known for his repetitive structures and deeply
emotional works, such as his opera "Einstein on the Beach."
Famous Modern Music Composers of the
20th Century
1 Bob Dylan 2 David Bowie

The American singer-songwriter and Nobel The British singer and actor was a pioneer
Prize in Literature laureate is known for his of glam rock and constantly reinvented
poetic lyrics and social commentary. himself throughout his career, influencing a
generation of musicians.

3 Michael Jackson 4 The Beatles

The King of Pop's immense influence on The British rock band led the British
popular music cannot be overstated, with Invasion and revolutionized popular music
hits like "Billie Jean" and "Thriller." with their innovative songwriting and
musical experimentation.
Impact of Classical and Modern Music
on Society
Music and Social
Movements
Protest songs have often been a
powerful tool for social
movements, from "We Shall
Overcome" in the civil rights
movement to "Blowing in the
Wind" during the Vietnam War.
Music and Individual
Identity
Music can be a powerful tool for
self-expression and identity
formation, allowing individuals
to find a sense of belonging and
connection with others.
Music as a Medium for
Change
From promoting environmental
awareness to advocating for
gender and racial equality,
musicians have increasingly used
their platforms to promote
social change and awareness.