Classical Era Music Introduction

What is Classical era music?

The word Classical is often used to describe music that is not rock, pop, rap, or another style. However, there is also a Classical era in music history includes compositions that were written from about 1750 to 1820.

What does the music sound like?

Music from the classical era has a particular style. It is often orderly, balanced, and clear and includes the following musical elements:

• MELODY - Classical music often has a simple melody that is singable and easy to remember.

• DYNAMICS - Classical music uses changes in volume - from loud (forte) to soft (piano) - to make different parts of the music stand out.

• FORM - The structure of each piece of music is very important in Classical compositions. Popular forms included the sonata, symphony, and concerto.

• TIMBRE - In the Classical era, the orchestra was very popular and included string instruments (violin, viola, cello, and double bass), woodwind instruments (flute, oboe, clarinet, and bassoon), and brass instruments (french horn, trumpet and trombone). Keyboard instruments like the Fortepiano (an early version of the piano) were also very popular.

Who were some famous composers?

Although there are many composers from the Classical era, the big three are:

• • • Franz Joseph Haydn

    • Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

    • Ludwig van Beethoven