Baroque Period (1600-1750)
Historical Developments:
Isaac Newton conducted experiments with gravity.
Colonies in the new world settled.
Artistic Philosophy:
Man is at the center of a complicated, but wonderful
universe.
This is the best of all possible worlds.
Musical Developments:
Complex layered melodies (polyphonic).
Fugue
Concerto-Grosso
Solo Concerto
Opera–in Italian
Oratorio
Patronage system (most composers were servants to
wealthy
patrons or the church/problems with finances & creativity).
Classical Period (1750-1820)
Historical Developments:
American colonies declared independence from England.
French Revolution
U. S. Constitution ratified.
Artistic Philosophy:
A return to the classical ideals of the ancient Greeks.
Balance and order–FORM. (Look at pictures of Greek
architecture), lighter music
Musical Developments:
Emphasis on form (construction).
Very little polyphony, except for simple countermelody.
Solo Concerto standardized.
Symphony Developed
Opera became more grand.
Public concerts started
Patronage system begins to break down.
Growth of instrumental music:
Orchestra “concept” begun. The orchestra was a group of
string instruments, like today with harpsichord and a
smattering of wind instruments (recorder, flute oboe
bassoon,
trumpet & French horn). Timpani, from the percussion
section was used quite sparingly. The main social instrument
was the harpsichord.
Growth of instrumental music:
The orchestra was enlarged from that of the baroque
orchestra, but not as big as present day. The clarinet was
added. A few more percussion instruments were used (snare
drum, bass drum, cymbals & triangle). The orchestra was
organized into it’s present four sections (woodwinds, brass,
percussion and of course, strings). The piano became the
main social instrument of the day and continues on to
present.
Important Composers and their Works:
Important Composers and their Works:
J.S. Bach: Minuet in G /Toccata and Fugue
A. Vivaldi: Four Seasons (Autumn)
G.F. Handel: Messiah
W.A Mozart: Requiem / Symphony #40
L. Beethoven: 5th Symphony / Moonlight Sonata