1. Classical Period

2. Stylistic Characteristics
Restrained use of ornamentation
The piano replaced the harpsichord
Greater range of dynamics, use of crescendos and diminuendos
Mostly homophonic texture: a single melody line with accompanying harmony that move together rhythmically
Thematic melodies composed of short, interlocking phrases
Consists of mostly absolute music: instrumental music that invites no association beyond itself
The Sonata, Symphony, Concerto, and String Quartet were popular compositional forms

3. Christoph Willabald Gluck
Impact on Period: Wrote a manifesto on operatic reform: wanted music to express the feelings of a story without useless ornaments
Year range for important compositions in this period:
Composition #1: Orfeo and Euridice, (0pera), 1762
Composition #2: Alceste, (Opera), 1767

4. Franz Joseph Haydn
Impact on Period: Known as “the father of the symphony”.  His symphonies established the standards for later composers.  He established the four movement symphony pattern: I-Allegro, II-Andante moderato, III-Minuet and Trio, IV-Allegro
Year range for important compositions in this period:
Composition #1: Symphony No. 94, Surprise Symphony, 1791
Composition #2: “Emperor’s Quartet,” No. 62, Op. 76, No. 3, Movement II, 1799

5. Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Impact on period: Childhood prodigy, wrote 155 works including symphonies, quartets, operas by the time he was 18.  His mature works epitomize the Classic style.
Year range for important compositions in this period:
Composition #1: Haffner Symphony, No 35, K. 385, 1782
Composition #2: Piano Concerto No. 20 in D minor, K466, 1785