The Classical Period

The Classical Period (1750 - 1820)

In the middle of the 18th century, Europe began to move to a new style in architecture, literature, and the arts generally, known as Classicism. Rather than complex and decorative structure in the Baroque Period, this period has a cleaner style, one that favored clearer divisions between parts, brighter contrasts and colors, and simplicity rather than complexity.

Characteristics of music in the Classical Period:

Tonality : Diatonic keys .

Harmony : Major and minor system, principal chords were used more often, the pattern of the harmonic accompaniments are kept simple : Chordal Form, Broken Arpeggio, Alberti Bass. Increased use of modulation as structural basis.

Melody : The melodic lines were simpler and more diatonic as compared to the Baroque Period. Melodies built on motives, and short phrases. Phrases often very regular in length.

Texture : Homophonic in nature. Polyphonic was less important than before.

Dynamic : The range in dynamic is narrow but is definitely much wider and more dramatic as compared to the Baroque Period.

Rhythm : Clear meters and less rhythmic variety.

Timbre : Instrumental music more prominent than vocal. Larger and more standard orchestra without continuo.

Forms : Minuet and trio, rondo, sonata-allegro, sonatina, theme and variations.

Keyboard Instruments : The pianoforte and harpsichord were used

Famous composer in this period:

C.P.E Bach

Haydn

Mozart

Beethoven