The 20th Century (Modern)

From 1900

Overview
In 20th Century music, all sounds or even no sounds are possible. The introduction of new instruments have changed the sound scape of the 20th century.

Western musicians are becoming more and more interested in the music of other cultures. Non-western ideas have ‘encroached' on Western styles and forms. It has enriched this media and have been widely accepted. Thus, this new "world music" style freely mixes elements from multiple cultures and is not dependent on the heritage of its creator.

Musical Style
All sounds (or even no sounds) are possible. The soundscape of the twentieth century has been changed with the introduction of new instruments and the sounds of popular music.

Popular music, especially jazz, country and rock became the central musical focus of the majority of the people the world over, and has reached almost all corners of the globe.

Musical Textures
Contrapuntal textures prevail in art traditions and popular traditions are centered on homophonic textures.

Rhythm & Melody
The rhythm used is very complex. The melodies can be long and abstract or reduced to small gestures.

Harmony
Any harmonic combination is possible. Extreme dissonance as well as microtonal intervals have been used by composers.