Classical Terms Flashcards
Absolute music
Pure organization of sounds, no words, no external narrative
Binary Form
Two-part form based on a statement and departure without return to the opening section
Ternary Form
Statement, contrast, return, or ABA form; B section of ternary form can provide contrast with the A section by using different melodic material, texture, tonality or some combination of these
Chamber Music
Music for a small ensemble between two and ten players; composed for one player per part and usually performed without a conductor
Classicism
In late 18th and early 19th centuries the movement celebrated nature and valued emotion; balance and completeness
Menuet and Trio
Often third movement of classical sonata
Rondo Form
Classical formal structure often used in sonata cycle in which section A recurs three or more times in the tonic key, with alternating sections creating contrast (ABACA or ABACABA)
Sonata Cycle
A multi-movement structure that emerged in the Classical Era; mainly demonstrated in the symphony, sonata or concerto
Sonata Form
Introduction, Exposition, Recapitulation; usually found as the first movement of a sonata string quartet, symphony or similar work
Viennese School
Achievements of masters of the school Haydn, Mozart, Beethoven & Schubert
Exposition
Statement, two opposing keys and their respective themes. First theme establishes home key, then a transition or bridge leads to a contrasting key. Second theme expands the contrasting key
Development
Conflict, action reaches its maximum intensity
Recapitulation
Restatement, climax of sonata allegro form, first theme appears in the tonic
Coda
Ending; final cadence in home key
Rocket Theme
Theme used in classical era instrumental music in which the opening melody has quick and ascending rhythm
