The Criteria That Make the Great Artists of the Past Great

In the realm of classical music, certain composers from the past are often considered 'great.' This status is not merely a matter of personal preference; it reflects a combination of several key factors that have allowed these artists to leave an indelible mark on the musical landscape. This article will explore these criteria and provide insights into why certain composers are celebrated as 'great artists' to this day.

Short Answer: Large Repertoire and Surviving Music Notation

The concise answer to what makes the great artists of the past 'great' is rooted in the size of their surviving repertoires and the quality and accessibility of their notated works. Composers whose music has been preserved in substantial volumes and notated accurately are more likely to be recognized as 'great.' Their works were vis-à-vis accessible to the public, thus maintaining their relevance over time.

The accessible nature of their compositions also means that they were viable during their lifetimes, easily notated, and that they could be shared widely through sheet music. Before the dawn of the Renaissance, music notation itself was often only an approximation, and much of the music from this era was rarely, if ever, written down. Consequently, the music of many talented musicians from this period has since been lost to time.

The Long Answer: A More Complicated Picture

The long answer reveals that the criteria for greatness in composers can be quite nuanced. Historical examples such as Mozart and Beethoven illustrate the multifaceted nature of this distinction. Both composers were prodigies and innovators of their respective eras, each contributing to their genres in unique ways.

For instance, Mozart's music was widely popular because it adhered to the social norms and aesthetic expectations of his time. His ability to interpret and adhere to these norms, combined with his technical mastery, made his music accessible and appealing to the public. Similarly, Beethoven's music pushed the boundaries of conventional composition, introducing revolutionary approaches that challenged the established norms of the era.

Both these composers' popularity, coupled with their lasting methods of music notation, ensured that their works would endure well beyond their lifetimes. The canonization of their music is a direct result of these factors, underscoring the importance of their contributions to the music of the past.

The Case of J.S. Bach: A Historical Aside

The case of J.S. Bach, a figure often overshadowed in his time, provides a poignant contrast. Despite his immense talent and the significance of his works, Bach's music was largely neglected and forgotten after his death. This can be attributed to the emergence of the Enlightenment and its emphasis on simplicity and clarity in music. The audiences of the Enlightenment rejected the elaborate ornamentation and complex counterpoint that defined Baroque music, including Bach's compositions. At that time, music wasn't seen as having a clear practical purpose, a criterion that Bach's music did not easily fit.

However, in the 19th century, a Baroque "revival" saw the rediscovery and reevaluation of Bach's music, reintroducing it to the public eye. This resurgence underscores the subjective nature of what is considered 'great' and how the perception of music can change drastically over time.

Criteria for Distinction as a 'Great Artist'

Ultimately, what classifies an artist as 'great' is a combination of several factors:

They Wrote a Lot of Music: Great composers typically produced a large volume of work, ensuring a substantial repertoire for future generations to enjoy and study. Their Music Survived After the Composer’s Death: The legacy of a composer is often sustained by the enduring nature of their music. If a composer's work has been preserved and is still being performed today, it speaks to its significance. Their Music Was Popular with the Public During Their Lifetime: A composer's popularity is a measure of their relevance and impact during their own time. This popularity often correlates with the ability to connect with the audience on a meaningful level. Their Music Adhered to or Directly Challenged Normal Practices of the Time: Great composers often innovated within the established norms, pushing boundaries and crafting unique styles that challenged traditional norms. Their Music Is Still Performed Today: The enduring legacy of a composer's work is often determined by its continued performance and the lasting impact it has on future generations of musicians.

While a composer need not satisfy all of these factors to be considered among the 'greats,' these criteria provide a framework for understanding the multifaceted nature of great music and the artists who create it.

Conclusion: Subjective but Robust

In summary, the distinction of being labeled a 'great artist' in the context of past music is highly subjective but grounded in concrete criteria. These criteria include the volume of music produced, the longevity of its afterlife, its popularity during the artist's lifetime, adherence to or challenge of norms, and ongoing performance. Understanding these factors can provide insight into why certain composers are celebrated and revered to this day.