These are the notes that we use concerning the Classical Period in Eighth Grade Music Class:
Classical Period: (1750 – 1820)
Art music – related to the Greek concept of classic
Melodies were more thematic not programmatic
Harmony – not as complex as the Baroque Period
Texture – homophonic (melody supported by chord structure)
Forms:
1. Symphony – consisted of three (3) movements
2. Sonata – composition for a solo instrument accompanied by a small ensemble
3. Concerto – composition for a full orchestra in three (3) movements using solo instruments
Instruments:
1. The start of the rise of the solo instrument
2. The potential of the piano is realized through Mozart and Beethoven
3. The clarinet was developed as a solo instrument
Composers:
Christoph Willibald Gluck: (1714 – 1787) He wrote many types of opera and ballets, a master of opera
Franz Joseph Haydn: (1732 – 1809) He wrote and developed the classical symphony plus string quartets; he also was supported by the patronage system
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: (1756 – 1791) He rebelled against the patronage system and was a child prodigy; also best known for writing symphonies, operas and concertos plus chamber music
Ludwig Van Beethoven: (1770 – 1827) He also rebelled against the patronage system and led the transition from the Classical Period to the Romantic Period; he was best known for the start of thematic music as well as symphonies, sonatas, piano concertos and became deaf later in life
For additional composers from the Classical Period click on the following link to the Composer Project.
12/11/2002