¿What exactly is classical music? (PART II)

Haydn has often been referred to as the “father of classical music,” as his work during this era forms the basis of influence for many others. Ironically, though he is considered the progenitor of the classical era, he is less familiar to most audiences than the composers mentioned above. His Symphony no. 94, The Surprise Symphony, is among his best known works. Classical music in the broader definition evokes such composers as Bach, who preceded the more rigidly defined era and is more rightly classed in the Baroque period.
Vivaldi, perhaps best remembered for The Four Seasons is also of the Baroque period. Handel’s Messiah is well known to the many who participate in sing-alongs during the Christmas season. The Romantic Period, which follows directly after the classical period, is known for its emotive qualities. Mahler and Sibelius stand out and tend to be familiar to most. Wagner is perhaps the most frequently recognized of the Romantic composers, his work stormy and grand, and his many operas still performed regularly today. "Classical" music may also refer to the native and folk music of any country, although the styles vary greatly, depending upon available instruments. For example, the classical music of Indonesia, with its use of the gamelan, is vastly different from what most would consider classical in the western world. Folk traditions in other countries were often quite influential to western music, however, as musicians of the baroque and classical periods often adapted their works from folk music.