Definitions
There isn't a single universally accepted standard music taxonomy, as music categorization can vary depending on different perspectives, cultural contexts, and research purposes. However, there are a few commonly used taxonomies or genre classification systems that have gained widespread recognition and are often referenced in music-related discussions. Here are a few examples:
The RILM Music Encyclopedias Taxonomy: The Répertoire International de Littérature Musicale (RILM) has developed a comprehensive taxonomy that classifies music into major categories such as "Art Music," "Folk Music," and "Popular Music." These major categories are further divided into subcategories and subgenres based on specific characteristics, geographical regions, and historical periods.
The AllMusic Classification System: AllMusic, a popular online music database, employs its own classification system. It categorizes music into major genres such as "Rock," "Jazz," "Classical," "Electronic," and "Folk." Each major genre is further divided into subgenres, styles, and moods, allowing users to navigate and explore music based on their preferences.
The Music Information Retrieval Evaluation eXchange (MIREX) Taxonomy: MIREX is an annual evaluation campaign for music information retrieval systems. It has developed a taxonomy that classifies music into major categories like "Western Classical Music," "Pop/Rock," "Jazz/Blues," "World Music," and "Electronic." These categories are then further divided into subcategories based on musical style, period, and cultural origin.
The Library of Congress Classification for Music: The Library of Congress (LC) Classification system includes a section specifically for music. It categorizes music into major classes such as "M" for printed music, "ML" for literature on music, and "MT" for music instruction and study. Within each class, music is further classified based on geographical regions, historical periods, and specific musical forms or genres.
The Hornbostel-Sachs System: This taxonomy is primarily used for the classification of musical instruments. It categorizes instruments based on their sound production mechanism, dividing them into four main groups: aerophones (wind instruments), chordophones (string instruments), membranophones (percussion instruments), and idiophones (instruments that produce sound from the material of the instrument itself).
The Orff-Schulwerk Classification: Developed by Carl Orff and Gunild Keetman, this taxonomy is often used in music education. It categorizes musical activities and exercises into four levels: speech, rhythm, melody, and harmony. It provides a sequential approach to teaching and learning music.
The Sachs-Hornbostel System: Similar to the Hornbostel-Sachs System, this taxonomy focuses on classifying musical instruments. It categorizes instruments based on their method of sound production, dividing them into five main groups: idiophones, membranophones, chordophones, aerophones, and electrophones (instruments that produce sound using electronic means).
The Grove Music Online Taxonomy: Grove Music Online, a comprehensive online music encyclopedia, utilizes its own taxonomy to categorize music. It includes major categories such as "Art Music," "Popular Music," "Folk Music," and "Traditional Music." Each category is further subdivided into specific genres, styles, and subgenres.
The Music Genre List: The Music Genre List is a widely referenced taxonomy that provides a comprehensive categorization of music genres. It includes major genres like "Rock," "Jazz," "Classical," "Hip-Hop," "Electronic," "Country," and many others. Each major genre is further divided into numerous subgenres and variations.
Notes
the field of music is vast and diverse, and different taxonomies may emphasize different aspects or serve specific purposes.
the choice of taxonomy often depends on the specific context, research objectives, or personal preferences of the users
these taxonomies may overlap or differ in certain aspects
there are many other taxonomies and subcategorizations developed by music scholars, researchers, and organizations that focus on specific genres, cultures, or research domains.
