Development of the Symphony: Key Dates, Terms and Composers

Question 1

Timeframe of the Early Classical Period

Answer 1

Approx. 1750 - 1770

Question 2

Timeframe of the Mature Classical/ Early Romantic

Answer 2

Approx. 1770 - 1830

Early Romantic style more present with Beethoven’s Symphonic work starting around 1804

Question 3

Timeframe of Late Romantic Period

Answer 3

Approx. 1830 - 1900

Question 4

Style Galante (Galant Style)

Answer 4

Was a part of the Early Classical Period. Textures and harmony were simpler and phrasing more regular. The style strongly influenced composers such as Johann Stamitz, C.P.E Bach and Haydn.

Question 5

Empfindsamer Stil

Answer 5

Part of the Early Classical Period. Also known as the ‘sensitive style’. Similar to Style Galant, however, it makes greater use of dramatic contrasts and chromaticism in order to provoke a strong emotional reaction in the listener. Could be argued to be a precursor to “Sturm und Drang”

Question 6

The Mannheim School

Answer 6

A collection of composers, writing for the Mannheim Court orchestra. The School became famous for its energetic rhythms, strong thematic material and powerful use of the orchestra.

Question 7

Johann Stamitz

Answer 7

The leading composer and conductor at the court of Mannheim

Question 8

Johann Stamitz was known for pioneering

Answer 8

1. The Development of Sonata Form
2. The change from 3 movements in a symphony to 4
3. Increasing the size of the orchestra
4. Evolved the function of orchestral instruments (more woodwind use)
5. Demonstrated the orchestra could be an instrument itself
6. Integrated the Minuet and Trio into the Symphony more often.

Question 9

Mannheim “Rocket”

Answer 9

Orchestral technique where a theme will begin with surging upward string arpeggiations. Seen in Mozart Symphony No. 40, IV.

Question 10

Mannheim “Birdies”

Answer 10

Orchestral technique that attempted to emulate bird sounds in the melody line by using ornamentation.

Question 11

Mannheim “Steamroller”

Answer 11

Orchestral technique where a long crescendo is developed over a bass pedal, often pulsing with repeated notes.

Question 12

“Sinfonia a 8”

Answer 12

Refers to the size of the orchestra. Generally included 2 Oboes (sometimes Flutes), 2 Horns, 4 Strings (w/continuo). Variations of this format are usually found with the Mannheim composers and early Haydn.

Question 13

General features of Mannheim Composition

Answer 13

1. Principal themes generally made from brief figures associated with the opening flourish and whose main character is based on rhythm rather than melody.
2. If opening section material returns towards the end of the movement, it’s likely to have a transposed sequence of its elements although the tonic key is always restored.
3. Movements that make use of crescendo passages are usually longer than normal due to this musical material being longer than the basic material

Question 14

Sturm Und Drang

Answer 14

This was a period during the 1770s that focused on individuality and emotions. The thought process of Sturm und Drang was to inject dramatic emotion (back) into the arts. Haydn’s works during the 1770s are often considered to be in this style.

Question 15

Features of the Classical Symphony

Answer 15

1st Movement: Lively/Fast/Allegro and usually in Sonata Form
2nd Movement: Slower/Andante and typically Ternary Form (ABA) or Rounded Binary or Theme and Variations
3rd Movement: Minuet and Trio or another style of dance (Scherzo)
4th Movement: Lively/Fast/Allegro and usually in Rondo Form (ABACADA) or Sonata Form

Question 16

Features of the Early Romantic Symphony

Answer 16

Similar to the forms and designs in the Classical period, however:

1. They were a bit more adventurous (particularly in harmony and structure) when expanding upon the style.
2. Expanded the size of the orchestra.
3. Continued to add more drama to the music.

Question 17

Features of the Late Romantic Symphony

Answer 17

Composers would usually fall into one of three categories:

1. Traditionalist - Continued with the tradition of symphony writing, with added complexities in structure, texture
   and harmony.
2. Program Music - Increased programmatic content; music would depict some form of story or
   narrative. Sometimes abandoned the Symphony for a Tone Poem (single movement work
   that tells a story)
3. Nationalism - The inclusion of folk-music from their country: dance rhythms, folk-like melodies.

Question 18

Nationalist Music

Answer 18

Music that would incorporate the folk elements of the composer’s given country. This would include dance-like rhythms, folk themes and also use of techniques such as drone.

Question 19

Program Music

Answer 19

Music that depicts some form of external imagery. This could be a poem, story, scenery or narrative.