This project aims to critically examine European classical music, drawing from social, historical, and cultural factors that have driven its conception, growth, exceptionalization, and prevalent affect. Why are certain texts the way they are? What were people thinking about, talking about, doing, in a particular moment? How do all these things leave traces in the text? and I argue that the history of classical music can illuminate how white supremacy evolved into the gravitational force it is today. Moreover, this study seeks to articulate how mass participation in classical orchestras effects one's sense of self.