New to classical music...
 

I have very much a growing interest in classical music, but really have not heard much. As of now, I could not tell you a composer I really like, because I've never sat down with the conscious intent of realizing who I'm listening to, and taking into consideration how they do what they do. I have heard some Baroque music, and liked what I heard, but don't really know what separates the different sects of the genre. I've always been one for slow and emotionally powerful music; I like things that really tear at your heart and soul (I imagine most classical music does that in some form though). I guess what I'm looking for is some possible ways to go about starting my journey through classical music. What are some key composers I should check out (I've heard big names like Bach, Beethoven, Mozart, Tchaikovsky, Philip Glass, but don't really know much by any of them)? Any pieces in particular you feel I should listen to? Anything you feel would be a good suggestion, I'm all ears; I really love to listen, so anything you feel could be said, say it.

Thank you very much for any thoughts you may have.

The classical music I enjoy :

Chopin- Piano Concertos
Erik Satie- Piano Works
Vivaldi-The Four Seasons
Holst-The Planets

I am sure there are a few more on here with much better suggestions.

I would start with Composers in the Baroque period, see what you think and then go to Classical and Romance periods. There are a WEALTH of works from each that are all fantastic.

My favourite classical composer is Mozart. I personally think he is amazing and a musical genius. Give him a try :) If you're into emotionally powerful music like you said you should definitely look into some of his works.

I most definately will, thanks for the tip. Any works in particular you think I should check out?

Oh, I need to get in this:

Edgard Varese
Frank Zappa
Igor Stravinsky
Bela Bartok
John Cage
Ask me if you want suggestions from these great guys.

I'd love any suggestions you have. Though, I was unaware of Zappa composing classical music. I have his Freak Out! album, and know that he was definately a composer, but didn't know he branched out into classical music. I'd love to hear what he came up with.

Bartok: Concerto For Orchestra
Zappa: Yellow Shark, Everything is Healing Nicely
Cage: Litany for the Whale, Sonatas and Interludes (I think it's called)
Stravinsky: Rite of Spring, Firebird Suite, Petroushka

Mozart
Lacrimosa
Requiem
Piano Concerto No. 24 in C minor
K. 491
Symphony No. 40 in G minor
K. 550
Overture

but there are so, so many.

I always find that Modern Classical sounds much better than Baroque and Romantic era-type classical.


-just my opinion.