The Classical Period
During the Classical Period (1750-1820), many significant events were occurring such as the
French Revolution and Napoleon led wars. America also began to establish itself as an
independent country during this time. We also began to see the first public concerts in which
the public paid to attend (music concerts until this time while more accessible to the public
than in previous generations were still intended for the elite of society).
The Music
Evolving from previous periods, Classical music was less emotional. Music was simple – the
titles had simple names such as First Symphony, Ninth Symphony, instead of more complex and
emotional titles. It was referred to as “absolute music” due to the music being the entire focus
as opposed to being created for special occasions (marching songs, weddings, etc).
The Symphony Orchestra
For the first time in history, the music became much more significant than the vocal lines. The
symphony consisted of multiple string instruments, clarinets, flutes, bassoons and oboes.
Trumpets and other brass instruments also came into the symphony during this period as well.
Percussion elements still were not a part of the symphony during this time. Vienna was the
music centre of Europe during this period.
Famous composers during this period included Franz Joseph Haydn, Mozart, and Beethoven.
Instrumental Music
Opera’s that had come into popularity during previous periods fell into decline during the
Classical period. Many were written and performed – but they were mostly directed towards
the upper class. Instead, as previously stated, the symphony (meaning “sounding together”)
was the dominant musical practice during this time. Symphonies were generally written in a
similar pattern of “Slow-fast-slow”. As time elapsed, composers also began to add a movement
in ¾ time prior to the finale.