In case you missed it, on March 28, 2023, Apple launched Apple Classical. Apple Classical is a music streaming service that provides access to a vast collection of classical music. It is a separate service from Apple Music, specifically tailored to classical music lovers. The service offers high-quality audio and exclusive content that is not available on other streaming platforms.
Our staff at Shar Music was extremely excited in the dates leading to launch. For years, one of the main complaints for musicians and listeners alike has been the inability to access classical music. Thankfully, Apple Classical has the vast selection of music ranging from the earliest composers to modern-day orchestras that we've been looking for. The library contains everything from chamber music to operas, and it is updated regularly with new releases. During the past month, our staff had the chance to review Apple Classical to see if it's all that they'd hoped it would be.
Apple Classical has a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to navigate the platform. The interface is simple and intuitive, allowing users to easily search for specific pieces, composers, or performers. This feature was never an option on other platforms, making users frustrated trying to find and discover various composers. Additionally, the platform offers curated playlists, which are created by expert curators and are based on different moods, eras, and genres. This has given new opportunities for listeners to discover new composers and performers.
If you were curious about the audio quality, the platform uses lossless audio, which means that the sound quality is the same as the original recording. This ensures that users get the best possible experience whether they are listening to Yo-Yo Ma recordings in 2018, or original recordings of "Clair de Lune" in 1913.
Moreover, the platform offers exclusive content, such as live recordings and interviews with renowned performers and conductors. These exclusive features give users a unique insight into the world of classical music and allow them to discover new and exciting performances.
But what if I want to make a playlist with my favorite Bruno Mars song and exclusive content from Apple Classical? Unfortunately, there is not yet a way for users to listen to Apple Classical content and Apple Music content seamlessly. Because this service is not integrated with Apple Music or Siri, using Apple Classical in a hands-free mode (Bluetooth speakers, Apple Carplay, etc.) can be a frustrating process as you are limited to Apple Music features.
One downside of the platform is that it is only available for Apple users. For current subscribers to other platforms, we can only hope they take inspiration from Apple and make their platforms more friendly for classical music listeners.
Although the service is more expensive than some of its competitors, such as Spotify and Amazon Music, Apple Classical requires no additional fees from your regular Apple Music subscription. Plus, no other platform has features catered to classical music, making the $10.99/month worthwhile.
In conclusion, Apple Classical holds up as a quality option for classical music listeners and enthusiasts today. While it may lack some of the bells and whistles, we were hoping it would have, the service in its current state is far superior to its competitors, especially for those who are looking for simplicity and functionality. Overall, if you're looking for a dependable and intuitive experience listening to classical music, Apple Classical is certainly worth considering.
