The 4th Best

[Camikaze]

There is little argument that the Top 3 in terms of classical music (that is, music generally considered to be 'classical', not just of the classical period ) composers are Mozart, Beethoven and Bach. The order might be a bit contentious, but them as the Top 3 are not. If you disagree with this, for the sake of argument, assume it is true.

But who is the 4th best composer?

There are numerous contenders, but it isn't as clear cut as the other three. Chopin, Haydn, Vivaldi, Tchaikovsky and Debussy are some that spring to mind.

Any thoughts?

 

[Tee Kay]

Was going to say Dvorak, but does he classify as classical though?

I'll go with Haydn.

 

[Camikaze]

I use 'classical' in the sense of any music commonly referred to as 'classical'. So Dvorak would count.

 

[Ajidica]

Dvorak. Liszt and Tschaikovsky come close though.

 

[Jan H]

Mahler.

 

[classical_hero]

For me it has to be Franz Liszt, since he revolutionised music. He was without the greatest exponent of piano music and the technical achievements with the instrument, even now, few are able to replicate, plus he wrote plenty of music for other instruments. He is the one that gave the tone poem real meaning to, so his contribution to classical music is immense.

 

[bombshoo]

Liszt without question. I actually think he is comparable to the other three.