1. Classical

2. What is Classical?
The Classical Era is a period of music history, lasting from approximately 1750 to 1830.
We also talk about ‘Classical Music’ –
-don’t get confused –
this is an umbrella term for
all instrumental western music from all eras:
Baroque, Classical, Romantic and Modern.

3. What was the Classical era like?
The cultural centre of the world was Vienna, Austria.
Classical fashion
was very elegant!
Classical architecture was
all about simplicity, light
and balance
(based on classical Greece
e.g. Temples etc)

4. Comparison: Baroque and Classical

5. Why is Classical important?
The Classical era is really important for several reasons:
Music became simpler, lighter and more balanced
2. New instruments were invented such as the Piano and Clarinet
The Orchestra grew bigger, including a full woodwind section
The range of keys, rhythms and dynamics used in music increased
Sonata Form developed

6. So what did Classical music sound like?
Balanced phrases of music, with a light texture
Piano was invented!
The Woodwind section became
established – with Clarinets
Melodies were NOT as DECORATED as Baroque music
Mainly HOMOPHONIC
Melodies played over
a chordal accompaniment
Greater variety of keys,
Rhythms, dynamics etc.
Alberti bass

7. What Classical instruments should I listen for?
More woodwind used
The FortePiano was a hit!

8. Who were the key composers?
Haydn
Austrian
Mozart
Austrian
Beethoven
German
(late classical)

9. Summary of the Classical Era
Composers
Musical Style
Instruments
Haydn
Mozart
Simplicity and balance
in melodies
Piano
Beethoven
Woodwind
Homophonic texture
- Melody over chord parts
Now go back to the blog and listen to some examples of Classical Music