The Classical Era

The Classical Era

General Characteristics

  • Characterised by order and balance, the Classical era (1750-1820) followed the idiosyncratic style of the Baroque era.
  • This was the time of galant music which focused on simple, catchy melodies with short, symmetrical phrases.
  • Classical era marked emphasis on homophonic texture, where melody is supported by accompanying harmony.
  • The period also brought balance and structure to compositions, following set forms and avoiding complexity.

Instrumentation and Ensemble

  • The classical orchestra was born in this era, expanding the earlier string groupings to include brass, woodwind and percussion sections.
  • The fortepiano, the precursor to the modern piano, was invented in this period, and rapidly became the key solo instrument.
  • Development of the string quartet (two violins, viola, cello), a popular Classical era ensemble format.

Notable Composers

  • Key composers included Franz Joseph Haydn, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and the early works of Ludwig van Beethoven.
  • Haydn and Mozart in particular established standard forms and structures for instrumental and orchestral works.

Form and Structure

  • Common structures include sonata form, theme and variations, rondo form, and minuet and trio.
  • Sonata form became the main structural form for first movements of works (and often the last too).

Key Works

  • Important works to familiarise yourself with include Mozart’s Symphony No. 40 in G minor and Haydn’s String Quartet, Op. 33, No. 2, “The Joke”.
  • Familiarity with these pieces will give insight into the compositional techniques and performance practices.

Inheritance from previous eras

  • While the Classical style demonstrates a clear departure from the Baroque era, certain features persist, such as the use of basso continuo in early Classical compositions.
  • The development and importance of counterpoint from the Baroque era still found its application, however more selectively.

Closing Remarks

  • As with all musical eras, keep in mind crossover - the dates given are approximate, and stylistic transition between eras is gradual rather than immediate.
  • The Classical era set a foundation for the richer and thicker textures, emotional expressiveness and formal experimentation of the Romantic era that followed.