The term classical music originates from the Latin term classicus, meaning a taxpayer of the highest class. Today, one of the ways Merriam-Webster defines classical is “of, relating to, or being music in the educated European tradition that includes such forms as art song, chamber music, opera, and symphony”.
The term, “alternative music” became popular in the '80s, used to describe punk-influenced bands on independent labels. Kids and record companies might apply the moniker to rap/punk bands with numbers in their names. Ideally, “alternative” describes innovation, music that changes everything in its wake.
