Classical Period of Music (1730-1820)

Overview

• The Classical Period spanned from 1730 to 1820.
• Marked by a shift towards classicism in arts, architecture, and literature.
• Influenced by ideals from classical antiquity (Greco-Roman world).
• Coincided with the Age of Enlightenment focusing on human rights and freedom.

Characteristics of Classical Music

• Emphasis on order, organization, beauty, elegance, and balance.
• Transitioned from complexity (Baroque) to simplicity.
• Featured brighter contrasts and distinctions between loud and soft sounds.
• Patrons were mainly nobility; public preferred lighter, humorous music.
• Viennese Classic: Many composers lived in Vienna, Austria.

Key Composers

• Franz Schubert
• C.P.E. Bach
• Christoph Willibald Gluck
• Felix Mendelssohn
• Joseph Haydn
• Antonio Salieri
• Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
  • Child prodigy; started composing at age five.
  • Known for improvisation and diverse compositions.
  • Notable operas: "The Marriage of Figaro," "The Magic Flute," "Don Giovanni."
• Ludwig van Beethoven
  • Music reflected deep emotions and political themes.
  • Expanded orchestra size and complexity.
  • Went deaf towards end of life; his work transitioned to the Romantic period.

Musical Instruments and Innovations

• Transition from harpsichord to pianoforte (piano).
  • Piano allowed dynamic expression (soft and loud).
  • Invented by Bartolomeo Cristofori in Italy.
• Introduction of new instruments:
  • Horn, trumpet, clarinet, flute, oboe.
  • Bassoons, kettledrums, clarinets popularized by Mozart.

Forms of Music

• Sonata: Multi-movement work for 1-5 instruments.
  • Ensemble names: trio, quartet, quintet.
• String Quartet, Concerto, Symphony (sonata for orchestra in four movements).

Vocal Music

• Choral works and opera were significant.
• Popularity of folk songs and singer-piano songs.

Cultural Impact

• Classical music followed the public taste for hummable tunes and comedic elements.
• Vienna was the cultural center.
• Classicism's influence extended beyond music to architecture and societal preferences.