Academic

Academic music, also known as art music, emerged in Europe during the late Medieval period and has waged a prolonged battle over the distinction between highbrow and lowbrow ever since. Characterised by its complex structures, extensive use of harmony, and a predilection for orchestras that could rival an army in size, it often makes the average listener feel like they need a degree just to understand the title. One could argue that its most significant cultural impact is the beautiful irony of a genre meant for 'intellectual stimulation' often being played whilst people sip wine and try to remember which fork to use.