Classicism in the arts. The Classical era (1750 – 1825) is characterized by order, objectivity, and harmonious proportion. The American Revolution (1775 – 83) and the French Revolution (1789 – 99) profoundly changed political systems and social order The era saw significant advances in science and ideas, and the industrial revolution mass production possible. Haydn, Mozart, Beethoven, and Schubert – All members of the Viennese school – composed in large-scale musical forms (symphony, concerto, sonata, and opera). Classical music is characterized by a singable, lyrical melody; diatonic harmony; regular rhythms and meters; homophonic texture; and frequent use of folk elements. Music-making revolved around the court, with composers employed under the patronage system. Women also held court positions as musicians and teachers.

Typical Classical Compositions Sonata: Multicycle compositions for solo or duo instrumentation. Symphony: Around 40 instrumentalists, (at this time). String are at the core with assistance from brass, woodwinds and percussion. String quartet: a quartet from the members of the string family. 1 of each member (violin, viola, cello, bass) Chamber music: various combinations of instruments arranged from duos to quintets. Concerto: Solo instrument and orchestra. Three movements are typical. Opera : Multi-act work incorporating elements of acting, singing, and instrumental music.

Multimovement cycle Sonata, Symphony, String Quartets, Concertos, and other Chamber music. 4 movements are typical, 3 for concertos. 1st Sonata form: Exposition: Contains two or more contrasting themes with transitional moments (Bridges) Development: Conflict, action, tension, wandering through many keys, restlessness. The composer reveals the potential of the themes by expanding or contacting them. Recapitulation: Restatement of the original themes. Resolution to the listener’s ears. The psychological climax of the sonata form. Coda: Closing thoughts and final cadence. 2nd Slow lyrical 3rd Danelike 4th Lively and spirited.

Wolfgang Mozart Johannes Chrysostomus Wolfgangus Theophilus Mozart 1756-1791

Child Prodigy Was the 7th and last child of Leopold and Anna Mozart. Displayed extraordinary musical talent by the time he was 4 and before 6 he was composing music. Never had any formal schooling; most of his musical training came from his father, Leopold. Was a harpsichord virtuoso, later mastered organ and violin. January 1762: Leopold took his children to perform for the elector of Bavaria. (harpsichord) Mozart’s talents were then displayed in all the principal cities and courts of Germany, Austria, France, England, Holland, and Italy. Mozart was frequently subjected to musical tests to prove he was a prodigy. He could accurately reproduce a work after hearing it only once, a capability he retained throughout his life. His tours were beneficial to his musical training, he met many important composer and performers and was exposed to many musical styles throughout Europe. In early 1764, Paris, Mozart’s first published compositions apeard – two pairs of sonatas for keyboard and violin, Op. 1 (K. 6,7) and Op. 2 (K. 8, 9). His works were catalogued by Ludwig von Köchel and published in 1862 (Chronological Thematic Catalogue).

Mozart’s Works Contributed to nearly all musical genres, including the symphony, sonata, concerto, chamber music, sacred music, and various types of opera. Major works: Chamber music: 23 string quartets, Divertimentos and Serenades Eine Kleine Nachtmusik, K525. Keyboard music: 17 sonatas Sets of Variations Orchestral Music: around 50 symphonies but not all survive. Concertos: 27 for piano, 5 for violin, clarinet, oboe, French horn, and bassoon. Opera: opera buffa (comic opera) The marriage of Figaro, Don Giovanni opera seria (serious opera) Idomeneo Sacred Choral Music: Requiem, which is unfinished.