For artists and listeners who shy away from the quasi-mystical qualities associated with the whole New Age movement, 'contemporary instrumental' exists as a more neutral musical term. Like New Age it's fairly wide in scope, encompassing elements of pop, folk, and/or neoclassical music, though at its core are the gentle, soothing aesthetics the genre is known for.

Notable Artists: John Tesh, Yanni, Will Ackerman