Trance music

Definition

Trance music is a genre of electronic dance music characterized by its melodic, repetitive beats and a tempo typically ranging from 125 to 150 beats per minute. It often incorporates atmospheric sounds and build-ups that create a feeling of emotional uplift and euphoria, making it popular in nightclubs and festivals worldwide. The genre has roots in the late 1980s and early 1990s and has evolved through various subgenres and styles.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Trance music often features a build-up followed by a breakdown, creating a sense of anticipation and release that is integral to its listening experience.
2. The genre is known for its use of synthesizers, sequencers, and drum machines to create layered melodies and rich harmonic textures.
3. Trance music festivals, such as Tomorrowland and Electric Daisy Carnival, showcase the genre's popularity and its ability to bring large crowds together for an immersive experience.
4. Prominent artists in the trance scene include Armin van Buuren, Tiësto, and Paul van Dyk, who have significantly contributed to the genre's global appeal.
5. Trance has influenced many other genres of electronic music, leading to the development of various subgenres like progressive trance and uplifting trance.

Review Questions

• How does the structure of trance music contribute to the emotional experience of listeners?
  • The structure of trance music is designed to evoke strong emotional responses through its characteristic build-ups and breakdowns. As the track progresses, listeners experience increasing tension during the build-up phase, which culminates in an uplifting release during the breakdown. This interplay creates a sense of euphoria and connection on the dance floor, making trance music particularly effective in live settings where collective experiences are important.
• In what ways has trance music influenced or been influenced by other electronic music genres?
  • Trance music has both influenced and been influenced by various electronic genres such as house music and ambient music. The repetitive beats of house laid the groundwork for trance's rhythmic structure, while ambient music contributed atmospheric soundscapes that enhance trance tracks. This cross-pollination has led to the emergence of diverse subgenres within trance itself, showcasing its adaptability and continuous evolution within the electronic music scene.
• Evaluate the role of major trance festivals in shaping the global perception and popularity of trance music.
  • Major trance festivals like Tomorrowland and Electric Daisy Carnival play a crucial role in shaping global perceptions and enhancing the popularity of trance music. These events provide platforms for both established and emerging artists to showcase their work to large audiences, fostering a sense of community among fans. Additionally, these festivals promote the culture surrounding trance music by emphasizing shared experiences through elaborate stages, light shows, and immersive environments, ultimately solidifying trance's place in the electronic music landscape.

Related terms

Ambient music: A genre of music that emphasizes tone and atmosphere over traditional musical structure or rhythm, often creating immersive soundscapes.

House music: A genre of electronic dance music known for its four-on-the-floor beat, deep basslines, and repetitive structure, which heavily influenced the development of trance music.

Psytrance: A subgenre of trance music that incorporates psychedelic elements, often featuring complex layered melodies and high tempos, creating a more intense listening experience.