Classical Era Flashcards
What timeline was the classical era in?
1750 - 1820
Describe the differences between this era and the era before.
Baroque era characterised by elaborate and ornamental compared to the Classical era characterised by refined style, emphasising clarity, symmetry formal structure and balance.
Name the 3 giants of the classical era.
W.A. Mozart, J. Haydn and L.v.Beethoven
What was a defining feature of classical music and what was it characterised by?
The increased use of instrumental music, especially the symphony - characterised by a clear and balanced structure.
What was another change in the way composers ordered and wrote music in the classical era.
Chamber music development - the ensemble ( quartets, quintets and trios ) characterised by intimacy and complexity as each instrument had its own unique role and voice in the ensemble.
Apart from instrumental development, what other development was made?
Vocal music developed. The Opera buffa - comic opera.
In addition to musical innovation, what other innovation was made?
The way music was written, performed and consumed. Composers wrote for a much larger audience.
Why did classical music become so popular?
The middle class had access to public concert halls, there was a great demand for sheet music and professional orchestras developed.
