I don't know who you are or what you think of the last week's events, but
I have to tell you that your inquiry on MCML literally brought tears to my
eyes.  I better explain why, lest you immediately think I am "unhinged!"

When I read of your interest in exploring classical music I knew that
things were on their way to returning to some "normalcy." Such requests are
a periodic occurrence on the list, so yours seemed reassuringly "familiar."
Indeed, you may want to check out the archives for the responses that other
such requests have prompted.

Secondly, I think many of us on the list believe that when (young??) people
are excited by the possibilities of exposure to this beautiful music, there
must be hope for the world.  As you have seen in recent days, many on the
list have found solace in music.

A warning: most of us are fierce advocates for the particular music that
moves us most.  Beware of any lists of music that you "must hear" that
any of us could give you-- or that appear in any book.  The best thing to
do--and the most fun--will come from discovering for yourself which music
"speaks" to you.  Try out the recommendations you get, but never let
yourself be cowed into distrusting your own instincts.

I think you will also be surprised at how your tastes change over time.
Unless your budget requires it, don't dispose of music that doesn't reach
you immediately.  Put it aside and return to it in a while.  You may be
surprised.

This is especially so since you appear to be focusing in on music of
the twentieth century.  This will delight some of us on the list, while
others may react with alarm.  My own opinion (though I love most of the
music you cited) is to urge you to get a basic grasp of the principal
periods/influences of music composition and sample each.  For example,
much modern music has more in common with Bach, or even renaissance
church music, than it does with Liszt or Chopin even though they lived
more recently.

Some good introductory books were mentioned here recently.  Perhaps the
best of them are Aaron Copland's What to Listen for in Music and a (more
history oriented) text called Listen, which is by Joseph Kernan (and more
expensive).

I hope none of this sounds"preachy," and I'd be happy to follow it with my
own thoughts--on piano music especially.  My prolix response reflects my
happiness at being motivated to talk about music again after this
horrendous week.

Meanwhile, let us know what you are discovering and what you think of our
advice.  And welcome to MCML, a wonderful resource for learning.

Ed