Nationalism

Nationalism music burst onto the scene in the 19th century, predominantly in Europe, as composers decided that rather than elegantly waltzing around in foreign languages, they would sing about their own lands and people, with all the gusto of a proud local standing at a parade. Characterised by the use of folk melodies, local rhythms, and a grand sense of patriotism, it often sounds like a rousing call to arms or a slightly excessive national anthem. Its impact ranges from fostering national identity to making people suddenly quite fond of their own rainy weather, all whilst conveniently forgetting that everyone else has a similar penchant for their own culture.