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The earliest Greek music was associated with Greek [[theater]]. But beginning with the fall of Rome, music became largely liturgical. The primary influence remained the [[Roman Catholic Church]] until the twin movements of the Renaissance and the Reformation, each of which introduced a countervailing tradition.
The earliest Greek music was associated with Greek [[theater]]. But beginning with the fall of Rome, music became largely liturgical. The primary influence remained the [[Roman Catholic Church]] until the twin movements of the Renaissance and the Reformation, each of which introduced a countervailing tradition.
From that time forward, most scholars divide music into "classical" music (composed primarily to achieve a high art) and "popular" music (composed for the masses in the primary hope of financial remuneration). In the former category one can usually find music composed for these purposes:
From that time forward, most scholars divide music into "classical" music (composed primarily to achieve a high art) and "popular" music (composed for the masses in the primary hope of financial remuneration). The distinction is difficult to sustain, however, as many classical works were also produced on commission.<ref>For example, Haydn's symphonies nos.82-7 were produced on commission for a Paris concert organisation. http://w3.rz-berlin.mpg.de/cmp/haydnj.html</ref> In the former category one can usually find music composed for these purposes:
# As an aid to worship, by placing the listener into a proper frame of mind for worship or instill in the listener a proper appreciation of the grandeur and glory of [[God]] and of the listener's own place in relation to Him.
# As an aid to worship, by placing the listener into a proper frame of mind for worship or instill in the listener a proper appreciation of the grandeur and glory of [[God]] and of the listener's own place in relation to Him.
# As entertainment while attending theatre, opera or ballet, usually for financial remuneration.
# To rally troops, either during training, on the march, or in battle.
# To rally troops, either during training, on the march, or in battle.
# To celebrate military victory or the reign of a king, usually the one presently on the throne.
# To celebrate military victory or the reign of a king, usually the one presently on the throne.
# Occasionally as a supplement to various forms of [[theater]]. Originally (especially in the Greek era) this meant the open-air live theater of classical fame. Today such music might accompany a live stage performance or several scenes in a [[motion picture]].
# Occasionally as a supplement to various forms of [[theater]]. Originally (especially in the Greek era) this meant the open-air live theater of classical fame. Today such music might accompany a live stage performance or several scenes in a [[motion picture]].
Popular music, on the other hand, is almost always used:
Popular music, in complete contrast, is usually used:
# For entertainment, and more particularly for financial remuneration.
# As an aid to worship, such as in many modern church congregations, putting congregations in the mood to celebrate their faith.
# As a powerful aid to [[propaganda]], especially when produced by church groups.
# For entertainment, in movies, theatre, opera and ballet, usually for financial remuneration.
# To rally troops, such as at USO shows where popular American pop stars often perform.
# Very frequently as a supplement to modern [[theater]] in all its forms, including stage, [[motion picture|motion pictures]], and especially [[television]].
# Very frequently as a supplement to modern [[theater]] in all its forms, including stage, [[motion picture|motion pictures]], and especially [[television]].