polystylism

Polystylism is a musical approach characterized by the abrupt juxtaposition of radically different, often contradictory styles within a single composition. This technique was notably employed by the Russian composer Alfred Schnittke, whose works blended elements such as classical quotations, folk songs, and dissonant serialism.1

While polystylism involves combining diverse styles, it is distinct from polyrhythm, which is the simultaneous use of contrasting rhythms. Polystylism emerged in the 20th century, a period marked by a wide diversity of musical styles, including Impressionism, atonality, and Neoclassicism. Schnittke's father was Jewish and his mother German, and he drew inspiration from both his German heritage and his homeland.231