MUSIC OF THE CLASSICAL PERIOD (1750-1820)

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.

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.

INSTRUMENTAL FORMS DEVELOPED DURING CLASSICAL PERIOD

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 movementAndante- moderately slowMinuet- moderate or fast tempo

SONATA ALLEGRO FORM1. 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.

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.

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

VOCAL FORMS OF CLASSICAL PERIOD

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.

“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.