Classical Period
When J.S. Bach died in 1750, it marked the end of the Baroque Period. Several style emerged in different countries before the Classical Period. These are known as the Pre-Classical styles. In Italy and France was the Style Galant (light, graceful, elegant,witty music usually homophonic in texture with simple melodies and harmonies)[The term Rococo was sometimes used to describe this type of music] and in Germany, the empfindsamer Stil ( continual change of expression or affection ) which later developed into Sturm und Drang ( Storm and Stress ).
Characteristics of Classical Music
Classical melodies are simple and balanced, with frequent contrasts of moods. Modulations are frequent but keys are clearly established. Harmonic rhythm slowed down in this period, which gave rise to the emergence of larger forms. In addition to terraced dynamics, gradation of tones (crescendo and decrescendo) were used.
The Harpsichord was gradually discarded as the main keyboard instrument, and in its place was the Fortepiano which later developed into the modern piano. The classical orchestra also used a relatively fixed combination of instruments: namely 2 flutes, 2 oboes, 2 clarinets, 2 bassoons, 2 trumpets, 2 horns, maybe 2 timpanis, strings.
Forms also gained importance in the Classical Period, namely the sonata form, sonata-rondo form, theme and variations form, rondo form.
Genres used in the Classical Period
Instrumental forms:
String Quartet
Symphony
Solo Concerto
Overture
Sonata
Vocal forms:
Opera (Italian, German)
Oratorio (German)
Mass (Latin)
Art Song
Main Composers in the Classical Period (Vienesse Period)
F.G. Haydn (1732-1809)
L. Beethoven (1770-1827)
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