Unpopular Opinions on Classic Music, Including Bach: A Unique Perspective

Classic music, often revered and cherished, spans a spectrum of opinions. Many believe it to be flawless, but a vocal minority holds differing and oftentimes unconventional views. In this article, we delve into some unpopular opinions regarding classic music, particularly focusing on the works of Johann Sebastian Bach and other composers.

Standard Opinions vs. Unpopular Opinions

In the world of classical music, there is a multitude of opinions ranging from the highly regarded to the less popular. Many hold the opinion that classical music is 'just great,' which is a popular stance. Conversely, others find it 'boring,' deeming it 'sucks.' These two viewpoints are certainly popular, representing extremes in the spectrum of opinions. However, there is also a sizable group that has no strong preference for or against it, leading to a mixed but equally widespread perspective.

Anti-Classical Sentiments

It's noteworthy that while there are no 'unpopular opinions' per se, there are individuals who claim to pull down and undermine classical music, particularly when it comes to marketing and public support. This pushback, however, is often rooted in personal biases and a lack of deep knowledge or appreciation for the genre.

My Unpopular Opinions

As an individual, I carry a variety of unpopular opinions, with a significant portion being negative. Bach, along with a select few, is one of the greatest composers of all time. This view, widely shared, is part of the common narrative, but I acknowledge that it is not necessarily the most popular one. In the United States, particularly in the 1950s and 1960s, Bach's reputation was not held in the same esteemed regard. Criticisms such as 'mathematical' and 'cold' were common, but thankfully, these views have largely waned.

Dislike of Popular Composers

Among my negative opinions, one of the most unpopular is my dislike for several well-regarded composers. At the top of the list is Giacomo Puccini, whose works I cannot stand. Other composers I find unappealing include Anton Bruckner, Aaron Copland, Sergei Rachmaninoff, and Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. These works, while often overplayed, fall into the category of being mediocre and are frequently celebrated more than warranted. The Four Seasons by Vivaldi, for example, and early works by Richard Strauss (excluding Capriccio), are prime examples of this category.

Controversial Compositions and Composers

While not technically in the realm of classical music, movie composers like John Williams, whose works I also cannot stand, further fuel the fire of unpopular opinions. Alongside this, the minimalist composer Philip Glass also irritates me for different reasons. In contrast, Steve Reich, often less admired by the general public, has a place in my affections.

Bombast and Conspicuous Composers

A number of bombastic and show-off composers, such as Niccolò Paganini, Franz Liszt, and Johannes Brahms, are also subjects of my criticism. While Brahms excels in some of his works, he can certainly be guilty of pomposity. On the other side of the spectrum, Richard Wagner, renowned for innovation, bores me to tears with his works.

Positive and Controversial Views on Composers

Contrary to the prevailing opinions, I consider Robert Schumann among the super greats, though his greatness is primarily associated with his piano works and lieder, which limits his general popularity. In the United States, Schumann's reputation is not high, but I strongly disagree with this assessment. Similarly, Frédéric Chopin is often disparaged as 'light,' which is a complete misconception. His works are far more than 'light.'

There is a significant amount of negative opinion regarding the later works of Igor Stravinsky, particularly among those who dismiss his early works without adequate knowledge of his mature ones. Stravinsky was, in my opinion, a screaming fucking genius, standing alongside Mozart. Those who brush off his early works and ignore his subsequent contributions are infuriating.

Finally, there is a broad popular antagonism towards atonality, with many even well-educated individuals lumping all atonal works together. This is a mistaken and lazy approach. Strictly serial music after the 1960s can indeed sound similar, but Serialism was dead by then, and many fail to realize this. Notable atonal works such as Alban Berg's opera Wozzeck and the later Stravinsky works, like "Canticum Sacrum," are truly magnificent, particularly the second movement "Surge aquilo."