Approximately 1750 to 1825
 Came
from “Classicism” or Viennese Classic,
since many of the great composers worked in
Vienna.
 Classicism
was originally about the arts. While
the Baroque time period was linked to the
courts and royalty, this NEW style was
much cleaner. There were clearer
divisions between parts, brighter
contrasts and colors, and simplicity
was preferred over complexity.
 Instead
of counterpoint, music now
moved towards homophony  where a
melody is put over a harmony (chords)
 greater
focus on dynamics and
phrasing.
 There
were many characteristic rhythms,
attention getting fanfares, funeral march
rhythms, and more that characterized
Classical music.

Form (the shape of a piece) became more
common. Concerto and Sonata form became
clearly defined with specific rules that
audience members could listen clearly for.

Classical music is lighter, clearer, and less
complex than Baroque music.

Used shorter melodies that ended in a
cadence (final chords).

Instrumental music was the primary form
of music – sonatas, trios, string quartets,
symphony, serenades, and concertos.
 Franz
Joseph Haydn
 Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
 Ludwig Van Beethoven (early music)
 C.P.E Bach
 Born
1730 in Austria
 Known for his
Symphonies and
string quartets
 Friend of Mozart
and teacher of
Beethoven
 Started composing
in the Baroque style
 Important works:
“The Creation”
oratorio
Born 1756 in Germany
 Wanted to learn piano
after older sister
started lessons with
father
 Child prodigy who
travelled Europe
playing to piano for
kings and queens
 Imp. Works- Requiem
(“Dies Irae” and
“Lacrymosa”), “Eine
Kleine Nachtmusic”,
“Marriage of Figaro”
