From Baroque to Classical

Transition from Baroque to Classical

Characteristics of the Transition Period:

• Characteristic complexity of Baroque music began to ease, progressing towards simpler, more homophonic structures favored in the Classical period.
• There was an increased emphasis on melody and accompaniment, instead of intricate polyphonic or contrapuntal structures.
• Evolution towards a clear tonal harmony and hierarchical structure in musical compositions.

Musical Forms

• Development of sonata form, a structure used for the first movement of most large-scale works during the Classical era, originated in the transition from Baroque to Classical.
• Classical suite, featuring a collection of dances, evolved from its Baroque precursor, but lost its popularity during the Classical period.
• Rise of symphony and concerto, larger-scale musical forms, becoming the main forms of orchestral composition.

Orchestration

• Expansion of the orchestra with more brass and woodwind instruments.
• Evolution and technological advancement led to the use of piano over the harpsichord.

Composers

• Prominent composers during the transition include C.P.E Bach (the second son of J.S. Bach) and Franz Joseph Haydn. Their work displays elements of both Baroque and Classical styles.
• C.P.E. Bach is often seen as the link between his father, Johann Sebastian Bach, and the Classical composers W.A. Mozart and L.v. Beethoven.

Social and Historical Context

• Changes in society and the role of composers were significant in this transition.
• Instead of being employees of the court or church, composers were becoming freelance artists.
• Musical compositions during the Classical era often reflected changes in social attitudes about art and expression, with a focus on conveying emotions and ideas to the listener more directly.

Remember to listen to examples of music from this transitional era to help familiarize yourself with the changes that took place in moving from the Baroque to the Classical era.