Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

Question 1

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart musical style and contributions

Answer 1

• Viennese Classical ideals
• explored, advanced, developed virtually all Classical genres
• counterpoint within homophonic textures
• symmetrical phrase structures (four-measure phreses)
• contribute to development of sonata form
• double-exposition sonata form in first movement of concerto
• harmonic language balanced diatonic and chromatic elements
• orchestral writing expanded use of wind instruments
• crystallized 18th-century piano style
• opera central to career
• compelling, realistic characters
• conventional recitativo secco: quickly advance plot
• sectional forms in arias
• vocal qualities and melodic lyricism in instrumental writing
• works cataloged by Ludwig von Köchel 1862 (“K” numbers in titles of works refer to this catalogue)

Question 2

How did Mozart exemplify Viennese Classical ideals?

Answer 2

• elegance
• balance
• poise
• refinement

Question 3

In which works did Mozart crystallize the 18th-century piano style?

Answer 3

• solo works

- concertos

Question 4

Describe Mozart’s contribution to opera

Answer 4

• 3 types:
• opera serious (serious Italian opera, sung throughout): Idomeneo
• opera buffa (Italian comic opera, sung throughout): The Marriage of Figaro
• Singspiel (German comic opera with spoken dialogue): The Magic Flute

Question 5

How did Mozart create compelling and realistic characters?

Answer 5

• dramatically

- musically

Question 6

Why did Mozart use sectional forms in his arias?

Answer 6

shift moods and point of views in characters