Is classical music still being composed and if so where can I listen to it and who is it by?

Answer 1

The Classical period (1750-1820) was a great period in music, but it is not the only one. It was a natural extension of the music before it and directly led to the music following it. Therefore, asking if Classical Music is still composed is a misnomer. A better term would be Western art music, and yes, it is still being composed today! Listen to film scores, such as those by Thomas Pasatieri, or the works of Philip Glass, and you will hear the echoes of the classical era in it.

Answer: Not as such. Look for music by John Williams, Thomas Pasatieri, Phillip Glass, John Cage, etc. for a glimpse into today's non jazz/rock/hip-hop music.

Answer: Assuming you are referring to "art music" as opposed to the classical period.

That said, within the realm of classical music in the larger sense, there are many, many active composers alive today. Here are a few names off the top of my head, who are alive today and having their works performed. Some of these compose mostly for wind band, as that is an easier medium to get new works performed. Some still compose for orchestras.

John Adams

Steve Reich

Alan Hovhaness

Frank Ticheli

William Frances Macbeth

Roger Nixon

Robert Jager

Michael Torke

Joseph Schwantner

David Ott

John Corigliano

George Crumb

Milton Babbitt

David del Tredici

David Holsinger

Karel Husa

David Gillingham

Thea Musgrave

Timothy Mahr

Arvo Part

Terry Riley

John Zdechlik

That should give a bit to look up. These are just a few composers I'm familiar with. There are plenty of others out there right now still actively composing!