by Metrix X
France has long been renowned for its appreciation of fine arts, particularly in theater and music. Since the era of the French intellectual revolution, music has become an integral part of French culture. Films from that period were notably musical, and this wonderful tradition has persisted to this day.
Origins and Influence of Music in France
The history of music History of Music and Current Recording Industry Crisis - Roger L. Bagula wrote this exclusive article for ManuelMarino.com. In a time when the whole future of how music is distributed is in question, maybe we should look at the history of music for a guide. Many of us find music is a part of our everyday life; both in terms of listening and making… in France is incredibly fascinating. Interestingly, it has even been influenced by indigenous music and sounds! Surprising, right? France has a history of welcoming intellectuals and culturally rich individuals from all around the world. Over time, this has shaped the foundation of French music. For those who enjoy world music, it’s not uncommon to find traces of Latin American, Asian, and even African sounds in French tunes! This results in a rich and diverse form of French music.
In modern times, France has somewhat transitioned from its folk and traditional roots, incorporating pop and hip-hop elements into its culture. Nonetheless, the true essence of French music resides in its traditional and folk melodies.
French Classical and Folk Music
The origins of French classical music are often attributed to the sacred hymns of the Roman Catholic Church. French opera, now world-famous, was initially identified as classical music in 1646, when the first opera was performed in Carpentras. This marked the beginning of the French Opera! Talented French musicians were also skilled at composing romantic ballads with a classical touch. Although they experimented with fusion music by incorporating elements of folk music, purists chose to adhere to the authentic classical form, which eventually gained worldwide popularity.
The 19th century in France is celebrated as the romantic era in the history of French music, largely due to the abundance of passionate and romantic films produced during that time. In the latter half of the 20th century, several prominent foreign composers significantly influenced France’s romantic era, causing a transformative shift in the country’s traditional romantic music.
Although there are still folk musicians in modern France, they are primarily found in mountainous regions or Corsica. Upon request, performances in Paris cater to tourists seeking folk music. Overall, contemporary French music continues to draw inspiration from its folk roots. This is most evident in techno beats, where producers blend elements of traditional French folk music with fusion beats to create a fresh, hip sound. Western France and the island of Corsica remain the primary torchbearers of folk music and dance in the country.
As for French classical music, it shares similarities with Indian and Japanese classical and traditional music, particularly in terms of notations. Though it is a lesser-known genre, it has a soul-stirring quality and is revered worldwide. French music is undoubtedly something to appreciate and cherish, especially for those seeking a break from loud, overpowering tunes.
Manuel Marino is a seasoned Senior Producer, Music Composer, and Artist with over a decade of experience. He specializes in branded entertainment across various mediums, including video games, films, and advertising campaigns. With 20+ years as a game music composer, Manuel has worked on numerous platforms, creating diverse orchestral soundtracks. HIRE ME