Music genres at a glance

In short: Genres classify music by style, instrumentation and time of origin. Boundaries are fluid; many pieces combine several genres.

In more detail: Genres arise from cultures, technology and society. New instruments and recording technology led to new styles.

In detail

• Classical: Orchestral and chamber music from Baroque (Bach) through Classical (Mozart) and Romantic (Beethoven) to today.
• Jazz: Improvisation, swing and blue notes, arose in the early 20th century in the USA.
• Rock and pop: Electric guitar, drums and vocals; pop stresses catchy melodies.
• Hip-hop and rap: Spoken rhythmic vocals over beats, arose in the Bronx in the 1970s.
• Electronic music: Techno, house, ambient with synthesizers and computers (musikinstrumente-familien).
• Folk and world music: Traditional music of regions and cultures.
• Schlager and singer-songwriter: Song-like forms with the lyrics at the centre.