SYMPHONIC METAL Meaning and
Definition
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Symphonic metal is a genre of heavy metal music that incorporates orchestral elements and classical music influences. It is characterized by the blending of heavy guitar riffs and powerful vocals with rich and melodic symphonic arrangements. The genre often features the use of string instruments like violins, cellos, and orchestral percussion, which enhance the dramatic and epic sound.
Symphonic metal typically showcases a blend of various styles, such as power metal, gothic metal, and progressive metal. The songs are often characterized by their grandeur and complexity, with intricate compositions and arrangements. The symphonic elements provide a cinematic and theatrical quality to the music, creating an immersive and atmospheric experience for the listener.
Lyrically, symphonic metal often delves into fantasy themes, folklore, mythology, and epic storytelling. The lyrics may touch upon themes of heroism, battles, darkness, and other mystical elements.
Notable bands in the symphonic metal genre include Nightwish, Epica, Within Temptation, Kamelot, and Therion. These bands have gained international recognition and have contributed to the popularity and evolution of symphonic metal.
Overall, symphonic metal is a genre that seamlessly fuses classical and metal elements, resulting in a unique and powerful sound that appeals to fans of both genres. It showcases the marriage of orchestral instrumentation with the driving force of heavy metal, creating an unforgettable and enchanting musical experience.
Etymology of SYMPHONIC METAL
The word "symphonic metal" is a combination of two terms: "symphonic" and "metal".
The term "symphonic" refers to the word "symphony", which comes from the Latin word "symphonia" derived from the ancient Greek word "sumphōnia". In ancient Greek, "sumphōnia" translated to "agreement or concord of sound". Later, it came to represent an elaborate musical composition performed by a full orchestra, encompassing various instruments and harmonies.
"Metal" in this context refers to the genre of rock music characterized by heavy and aggressive instrumental elements, powerful vocals, and a thick, distorted guitar sound. The term "metal" originated from the use of the word to describe the strength, hardness, and intensity of the music itself. It is believed to have emerged in the 1960s and 1970s.
