early 20th-century classical music

Early 20th-century classical music was a time of experimentation and breaking traditional rules. Composers like Stravinsky, Schoenberg, and Debussy explored new sounds, structures, and styles—incorporating dissonance, unconventional rhythms, and innovative harmonies. This period saw movements such as Impressionism, Expressionism, and Modernism, reflecting a desire to evoke emotion and new artistic ideas. While some works remained rooted in classical forms, others pushed boundaries toward abstraction. Overall, it was a dynamic era that expanded the vocabulary of Western music, shaping its evolution and influencing future composers.