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General: The Socio-Political Situation |
An hierarchical State
The baroque state is still a hierarchy:
King and Royals, the clergy, farmers and town-dwellers form
respectively the 1st, 2nd and 3rd levels. This order
(determined by the grace of God) can only be held with
force. Louis XIV sees himself as the Sun-king
(L'état c'est moi) and is supported by the
aristocracy, clergy and the army. In the cities the
citizens live with their own holdings and education. The
country people however are becoming ever poorer and 80% of
Europe is illiterate.
Important Musical Institutions
Aurally handed down folk music (songs,
dances) has almost disappeared. In terms of music history,
the music culture of the higher echelons of society which
has been preserved is of the utmost interest and
importance. The most important musical institutions are the
court, church (choirs), the state (music for official
occasions), schools (boys choirs), music conservatories,
and the Opera.
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