Classical music is the sweeping term applied to the musical tradition that is undethered and almost diametrically opposed to the popular music of contemporary culture.This music evokes classical traditions,focuses on formal styles,invites technical and detailed deconstruction and criticism,and demands focused attention from the listener.
典音乐可以指：
广义的古典音乐是指西洋古典音乐,那些从西方中世纪开始至今的、在欧洲主流文化背景下创作的音乐,主要因其复杂多样的创作技术和所能承载的厚重内涵而有别于通俗音乐和民间音乐.
狭义的古典音乐是指古典主义音乐,是1750－1820年这一段时间的欧洲主流音乐,又称维也纳古典乐派.此乐派三位最著名的作曲家是海顿、莫扎特和贝多芬.