Generally, a concert is a live musical performance by a musical group or soloist, usually in front of an audience. The performance may include a combination of musical instruments, costumes, props, and stage lighting. It may also include additional entertainment devices such as a pre-recorded video or an inflatable set. The nature of a concert varies from venue to venue, and also depends on the individual performers.
In early centuries, concerts consisted of gatherings of amateurs to hear music played by a group. Italian academies in the Renaissance fostered music as a humanistic discipline. In the 17th century, concerts of instrumental music were given in the homes of nobility. The concept of the concert spread to the United States in the 18th century. Concert societies were formed in several European countries to promote national music and meet the democratic spirit. The most important contribution to the development of the concert came with the establishment of symphony orchestras in the 19th century.
Today, concerts are a major part of musicians’ lives, and are used to promote composers, albums, or other related material. Concerts are often organized and promoted by professional tour promoters. The nature of a concert can vary depending on the music being played, the venue, the type of performance, and the individual performers.
In the United States, a symphony orchestra is an ensemble of more than forty musicians, led by a conductor. The musicians perform in a large room and usually use a stage, but they may also use other instruments if the piece they’re playing calls for it. There are chamber orchestras, which are smaller groups of musicians. They perform music with or without a conductor, and can feature young instrumentalists.
Concerts also include children’s concerts, which are performed at schools, churches, or other family functions. These concerts often have short programs, and are usually less formal than a classical concert. They are also usually performed at auditoriums.
The concert also includes choral music concerts. These are a group of singers performing a piece of music, often accompanied by a full orchestra. These performances can range from a few singers to hundreds of singers. A choral music concert can also include a soloist performing with the group. The singers may perform a capella, or they may augment the concert sound with vocal tracks or pre-recorded accompaniment.
In the early 21st century, the concert has developed to include more international and cosmopolitan aspects. Concert audiences are influenced by an increasingly international outlook and often view music as a form of artistic expression. Concert audiences may also exhibit a specific style, and regular attendees may be recognizable. Concerts can also be used to promote composers or recording labels. The audience’s appreciation of a performer is a common characteristic of a concert.
Another type of concert is a recital, which focuses on the work of one musician. The recital may feature a single piece of music or may be more artistically focused, highlighting the work of a composer or artist. Some performers may also use stage lighting, special effects, or other equipment to make the performance more dramatic.