The Classical Period

Time Period: 1750-1820

Forms of Music in the Classical Period

Symphonies- Orchestral works, often with 4 movements. The 1st movement is typically fast, followed by a slow 2nd movement, then a 3rd movement which could be a scherzo or minuet, and ends with a fast 4th movement.

Sonatas- A 3 or 4 movement piece, typically for solo instrument. The 1st movement is in sonata form, the middle movement is typically slow, and the finale is usually fast.

Concertos- A work that features a solo performer with orchestra., typically 3 movements.

String quartet- An ensemble of 2 violins, 1 viola, and a cellist. This piece is usually 4 movements, with the 1st in sonata form, the 2nd is a slow movement, the 3rd a minuet and trio, and the 4th in rondo or sonata rondo form.

Instruments

Piano- The piano replaced the harpsichord. The strings in a piano are struck with wooden hammers instead of plucked.

Notable composers:

Mozart

Haydn

Beethoven

Pieces you may know:

• Beethoven – Symphony No. 5 (1st movement)
• Beethoven – Symphony No. 9 (Final movement)
• Beethoven – Piano Sonata Op. 27 “Moonlight” (1st movement)
• Beethoven – Fur Elise
• Mozart – Rondo alla turca
• Mozart – Sonata in C
• Mozart – Eine kleine Nachtmusik