Within the broad movement of New Age music, neoclassical New Age music is strongly influenced by and sometimes also based upon early, baroque or classical music, especially in terms of melody and composition. In either case the artist may offer a modern arrangement of a work by an established composer or combine elements from classical styles with modern elements to produce original compositions. Many artists within this sub-genre are classically trained musicians. Neoclassical New Age music is generally melodic, harmonic, and completely instrumental. Similar neoclassical elements can often be found within other genres besides New Age music, including electronic music, minimalist music, post-rock music and Neoclassical Dark Wave music.

The neoclassical new age genre can be traced back to the origins of new age music in 1970's. In particular, Mannheim Steamroller's Fresh Aire (1975) is the earliest known example of this genre. While new age music gradually came more and more to emphasize inspiration, relaxation, spirituality, and positive feelings, neoclassical new age has tended to emphasize artistic and aesthetic expression.