MUSIC of CLASSICAL PERIOD

1.  Also called “AGE OF REASON”.
 Dominated by the aristocracy, as
patrons of musicians and artists.
 Instrumental music was patronized
primarily by the nobility.
 French Revolution and Napoleonic Wars
occurred.
 American Declaration of Independence
in 1776 and The American Revolution.

2. oThe term “classical” denotes conformity
with the principles and characteristics of
ancient GREECE and ROMAN literature and
art which is formal, elegant, simple, freed
and dignified.
oThe same characteristics may also describe
the melodies of classical music.
oHarmony and Texture are homophonic in
general.
oThe Dynamics of loud and soft were clearly
shown through the extensive use of
crescendo and diminuendo.
oA style of broken chord accompaniment
called ALBERTI BASS was practiced.

3.  SONATA – a multi-movement work for
solo instrument, SONATA came from the
word “Sonare” which means to make a
sound. This term is applied to a variety of
works for solo instruments such as
keyboard and violin.
 3 Movements of SONATA.
Allegro- fast movement
Andante- moderately slow
Minuet- moderate or fast tempo

4.  SONATA ALLEGRO FORM
1. Exposition- the first part of a
composition in sonata form that
introduces the theme.
2. Development- is the middle part of the
sonata-allegro form wherein themes are
being developed.
3. Recapitulation- repeats the theme as
they first emerge in the opening
exposition.

5.  CONCERTO- is a multi-movement work
designed for an instrumental soloist and
orchestra. It is a classical form of music
intended primarily to emphasize the
individuality of the solo instrument and to
exhibit the virtuosity and interpretative
abilities of the performer. The solo
instruments in classical concertos include
violin, cello, clarinet, bassoon, trumpet,
horn, and piano. Concerto has three
movements: fast, slow, and fast.

6.  SYMPHONY- a multi-movement work for
orchestra, the symphony is derived from
the word “Sinfonia” which means “a
harmonious sounding together”. It is a
classical music for the whole orchestra,
generally in four movements. Fast, Slow,
Medium/Fast, Fast

7. OPERA is a drama set to music where
singers and musicians perform in a
theatrical setting.
 OPERA SERIA- (serious opera) usually
implies heroic or tragic drama that
employs mythological characters.
 OPERA BUFFA- (comic opera) from Italy
made use of everyday characters and
situations, and typically employed
spoken dialogues, lengthy arias and was
spiced with sight gags, naughty humor
and social satire.

8. “Idomeneo” by Mozart is an example of
Opera Seria.
“The Marriage of Figaro”, “Don Giovanni”,
and “Magic Flute” are examples of
popular Opera Buffa by Mozart.