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The Regulation and Reform of Music Criticism in Nineteenth-Century England

Darren Nelson

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Published in The Regulation And Reform Of Music Criticism In Nineteenth Century England (Royal Musical Association Monographs 31)

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Music criticism in nineteenth-century England underwent a significant period of regulation and reform. This was due to a number of factors, including the professionalization of music, the rise of the middle class, and the development of new musical genres. This article will explore these factors and their impact on the development of music criticism in England.

The Regulation and Reform of Music Criticism in Nineteenth Century England (Royal Musical Association Monographs 31)

The Regulation and Reform of Music Criticism in Nineteenth-Century England (Royal Musical Association Monographs Book 31)

by Thomas Quinn

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
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The Professionalization of Music

One of the most important factors in the regulation and reform of music criticism in nineteenth-century England was the professionalization of music. Prior to this time, music criticism was largely written by amateurs who had little or no formal training in music. However, as the nineteenth century progressed, an increasing number of professional music critics emerged. These critics were typically trained musicians who had a deep understanding of music theory and practice. They were also often employed by newspapers and magazines, which gave them a platform to reach a wider audience.

The professionalization of music criticism had a number of effects on the field. First, it led to a higher standard of criticism. Professional critics were more likely to be able to accurately assess the quality of a musical performance or composition. They were also more likely to be able to provide constructive feedback that could help musicians to improve their work.

Second, the professionalization of music criticism helped to legitimize the field. Prior to this time, music criticism was often seen as a frivolous pastime. However, as professional critics began to emerge, music criticism began to be taken more seriously. This was due in part to the fact that professional critics were often able to provide valuable insights into musical performances and compositions.

Third, the professionalization of music criticism helped to create a community of musicians and critics. Professional critics were often able to network with each other and to exchange ideas. This helped to create a sense of community among musicians and critics, and it also helped to foster a greater understanding of music.

The Rise of the Middle Class

Another important factor in the regulation and reform of music criticism in nineteenth-century England was the rise of the middle class. The middle class was a growing and increasingly influential social group, and it had a significant impact on the development of music criticism.

The middle class was more likely to be interested in music than the upper class or the working class. This was due in part to the fact that the middle class had more leisure time and money to spend on cultural activities. The middle class also had a strong interest in education, and this led to a greater appreciation for music.

The rise of the middle class led to an increased demand for music criticism. Middle-class readers were eager to learn about new musical performances and compositions. They also wanted to be able to make informed decisions about which concerts and operas to attend. This led to a growing number of newspapers and magazines publishing music criticism.

The middle class also had a significant impact on the content of music criticism. Middle-class readers were more likely to be interested in music that was accessible and entertaining. They were also more likely to be interested in music that reflected their own values and beliefs. This led to a shift in the focus of music criticism. Critics began to pay more attention to the entertainment value of music, and they also began to consider the social and political implications of music.

The Development of New Musical Genres

The development of new musical genres also had a significant impact on the regulation and reform of music criticism in nineteenth-century England. Prior to this time, most music criticism focused on classical music. However, as the nineteenth century progressed, a number of new musical genres emerged, including opera, popular music, and jazz. These new genres appealed to a wider audience, and they also challenged the traditional canons of classical music.

The emergence of new musical genres led to a need for new approaches to music criticism. Critics had to learn to understand and appreciate these new genres, and they also had to develop new ways to write about them. This led to a more diverse and inclusive approach to music criticism.

The regulation and reform of music criticism in nineteenth-century England was a complex and multifaceted process that was driven by a number of factors. The professionalization of music, the rise of the middle class, and the development of new musical genres all had a significant impact on the development of music criticism in England. These factors led to a higher standard of criticism, a greater legitimacy for the field, and a more diverse and inclusive approach to music criticism.

The Regulation and Reform of Music Criticism in Nineteenth-Century England (Royal Musical Association Monographs Book 31)

by Thomas Quinn

5 out of 5