Why was the classical era called absolute music?

Absolute music is a term used to describe music that is not directly associated with a text, story, or other external reference. It is often contrasted with program music, which is music that is specifically composed to illustrate or accompany a narrative or other non-musical content.

The classical era, which lasted from about 1750 to 1830, was a time when absolute music was particularly popular. This was due in part to the rise of the symphony and the sonata, two musical forms that are well-suited for absolute music. Symphonies and sonatas are typically composed in several movements, each of which has its own distinct character and structure. This allows for a great deal of musical variety and expression, without the need for a specific narrative or program.

Some of the most famous composers of absolute music from the classical era include Joseph Haydn, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, and Ludwig van Beethoven. These composers wrote some of the most beautiful and enduring music in the history of Western civilization, and their works continue to be enjoyed by audiences around the world.