Symphonic rock is a subgenre of rock music, and more specifically, progressive rock. Since early in progressive rock's history, the term has been used sometimes to distinguish more classically influenced progressive rock from the more psychedelic and experimental offerings.
Symphonic rock is best described as the combining of rock and classical music traditions. Some artists perform rock arrangements of themes from classical music, or compose original pieces in classical composition structures. Others play with the accompaniment of a symphony orchestra or use a synthesizer to emulate orchestral instruments.
Note: Symphonic Rock is not the orchestral rendition of hit Rock and Pop songs by classical orchestras; these can be considered "classical arrangements of contemporary music", though these are at times marketed as "symphonic rock" by various outlets. .
