1. Classical Era 1750-1825

2. The Classical Era  Important events: –American Revolution (1775-1783) –French Revolution (1789-1799) –The Industrial Revolution made mass production possible.

3. Classicism in Music  Music was mostly long pieces, large forms such as: –Symphony- (a large work for orchestral piece of 3-4 sections) –Concerto (an orchestra piece featuring a solo instrument…with 3-4 sections) –Sonata (Instrumental genre in several movements for soloist or small ensemble. )

4. Elements of Classical Style  Singable, Lyrical melody  Regular rhythm ( 2, 3 or 4 beats per measure)  Homophonic texture –Melody has accompanying harmony

5. The Patronage System  Aristocracy adopted the arts as a necessary part of life.  Social events created demand for new music  Musicians didn’t have economic security  Women worked as professional opera singers, ballet dancers, music teachers & soloists  Performance music from palaces to public concert halls.

6. The Development of Classical Forms  Form is the main organizing element in absolute music.  Absolute Music: No Pictorial or Literary Program  Music takes shape with Multimovement Cycles: one pieces has 3 or 4 movements (sections)

7. The First Movement  Exposition –Usually in a quick tempo Main Theme begins in tonic (home key)  Development –Theme is broken up and developed –More tension –More musical conflict & action

8. First Movement (continued)  Recapitulation –Theme returns after the Development –Bridge (has 2 nd Theme)  Closing Section  Coda- last section (ending section of a song)

9. The Second Movement  Slower tempo… Andante (walking speed)  Adagio (slow speed)  Ternary Form (A-B-A)  Theme and Variations –Theme –Variations (change of)  Melody, Chords, Rhythm, Dynamics (loud/soft)

10. The Third Movement  In the Classical Symphony, usually a Minuet & Trio.  Minuet –A Baroque court dance in triple meter ¾ –Two main sections A-B & return to beginning A –4 & 8 measure phrases.

11. Fourth Movement  Is a Rondo (type of dance) –A lively movement with the spirit of dancing –Forms A-B-A-B-A –A-B-A-C-A –A-B-A-C-A-B-A

12. Eine kleine Nachtmusic K. 525  Written by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart  Translation: “A Little Night Music” –Serenade for Strings (String Quartet with a Double Bass) –Meant for Outdoor Public Performance –Four Movements (originally five)  1. Allegro in G major  2. Romanza in C major  3. Allegretto in G major  4. Allegro in G major