The Evolution of Music: A Shift in Complexity
Older generations often claim that music was better in their time, but is this true? A recent study suggests that classical and jazz music have become simpler over the years, though this shift may not be entirely negative. The research, conducted by a team of Italian scientists, examined musical complexity across centuries, revealing intriguing patterns in how music has evolved.
Measuring Musical Complexity
To explore long-term trends in musical evolution, the researchers analyzed approximately 20,000 MIDI files spanning from 1600 to 2021. Niccolò Di Marco, an assistant professor at the University of Tuscia in Italy and co-author of the study, explained how they approached measuring complexity.
“We first considered how to measure the ‘complexity’ of music in a way analogous to approaches used for text,” Di Marco told Euronews Culture. “After reviewing the literature, we found that the only robust method close to our approaches was to work with MIDI files – a digital representation of music – and apply tools from complexity science.”
This method allowed the researchers to analyze the structure of music in a systematic way. However, the study did come with some limitations. For instance, it was difficult to accurately capture note selections when transcribing MIDI files, which rely on a twelve-tone pitch system.
Focusing on Melodic and Harmonic Transitions
Instead of focusing on individual notes, the researchers concentrated on melodic and harmonic transitions. This approach revealed that classical and jazz music have become increasingly similar in their structural patterns to less complex, more contemporary genres.
Similar Trends in Popular Music
The findings align with other studies on musical evolution. In 2024, a study by Queen Mary University of London identified a similar trend of simplification in chart-topping songs. While technological advancements and cultural homogenization are often cited as reasons for this shift, Di Marco believes a more nuanced explanation is necessary.
“Complexity is still present in these genres – just residing differently,” he said. “There are also broader cultural and practical factors to consider. The 20th and 21st centuries saw a diversification of musical languages and audiences, with some composers favouring clarity, repetition, or accessibility over dense structural elaboration.”
According to Di Marco, classical music may not be becoming less complex, but rather differently complex. It is shifting away from harmonic and melodic intricacy toward other dimensions that are harder to quantify.
Broader Implications of the Study
Di Marco’s research is part of a larger project exploring how human life has evolved since the advent of the internet and social media. Previous findings from the same project suggest that online communication has also been simplifying over time.
Despite these changes, Di Marco does not see them as cause for concern. In fact, he argues that simpler musical structures could be a positive development in the digital age.
“I would argue that in a much more interconnected world, the presence of simpler musical structures is not necessarily negative – especially in terms of accessibility and broader reach,” he said. “Moreover, our paper is not meant to criticise or lament a supposed simplification of music, but rather to measure a possible evolution in certain aspects of it.”
Conclusion
The study offers a fresh perspective on how music has evolved over the centuries. While it may appear simpler, this shift could reflect broader changes in culture, technology, and audience preferences. As the world continues to adapt, the role of music in connecting people remains as important as ever.
