Chapter 6: The Classical Era
Preview Questions
Introduction
In the last chapter we learned about the elaborate Baroque style of music, the contributions of Bach and Handel, and development of German, Italian, and French Baroque musical characteristics. In this chapter we will see that the regional music centers from the Baroque era were eclipsed by the importance of Vienna in the Classical era. We will learn that the dense textures and busy melodic lines of Baroque music gave way to simpler textures and shorter melodies in the Classical era, influenced by the dawning Age of Enlightenment. We will see that the harpsichord is abandoned in favor of the new fortepiano, and the size of the orchestra increases as instrumental music grows in importance. Mozart and Haydn exemplify the Classical style, while Beethoven builds upon the Classical style and leads the transition to the Romantic era.
Review Questions
- What major event happened in America in the late 1700s?
- Why did the French Revolution happen?
- What do you know about the lives of Mozart and Beethoven?
- Can you name any pieces by either of those composers?
- Why do you think the phrase “classical music” is used to describe art music from all time periods, and not just the music from 1750-1820?
Introduction
In the last chapter we learned about the elaborate Baroque style of music, the contributions of Bach and Handel, and development of German, Italian, and French Baroque musical characteristics. In this chapter we will see that the regional music centers from the Baroque era were eclipsed by the importance of Vienna in the Classical era. We will learn that the dense textures and busy melodic lines of Baroque music gave way to simpler textures and shorter melodies in the Classical era, influenced by the dawning Age of Enlightenment. We will see that the harpsichord is abandoned in favor of the new fortepiano, and the size of the orchestra increases as instrumental music grows in importance. Mozart and Haydn exemplify the Classical style, while Beethoven builds upon the Classical style and leads the transition to the Romantic era.
Review Questions
- What ideals did the Enlightenment philosophy embrace?
- How were the American and French Revolutions reflections of Enlightenment philosophy?
- Describe the characteristics of music in the Classical era. How was it different from the music of the Baroque period?
- Compare the careers of Mozart, Haydn, and Beethoven. What successes and limitations did each one have? How did they support themselves financially?
- What do you remember most about the compositions discussed in this chapter? Which was your favorite? Why?
- In what ways did Beethoven’s music become less “Classical” and more “Romantic” over the course of his lifetime?
- How do you think Beethoven was able to compose when he was deaf?