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Synonyms

art music

American  

noun

  1. music in the classical tradition, as opposed to popular or folk music.


art music British  

noun

  1. music written by a composer rather than passed on by oral tradition Compare folk music

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of art music

First recorded in 1790–1800

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

Finkelstein pointed to copious data supporting the value of art, music and dance therapy for people with cognitive impairment.

From Barron's Jun. 15, 2026

I loved being surrounded by so many different types of people and exposed to art, music and culture.

From The Wall Street Journal Mar. 3, 2026

A Department for Education spokesperson said the government was committed to ensuring art, music and drama "are no longer the preserve of a privileged few".

From BBC Dec. 21, 2025

“The multidisciplinary and wide-ranging practice she began more than 70 years ago remains strikingly contemporary, as the boundaries between art, music and performance are, in her hands, challenged and reshaped, creating fresh emotional connection.”

From Los Angeles Times Nov. 6, 2025

Most people agree that the appreciation of art music requires some study, careful listening, or other extra effort.

From "Understanding Basic Music Theory" by Catherine Schmidt-Jones and Russel Jones

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