The Classical period in Western music lasted from about 1750 to 1830. It is characterized by clarity of form, texture, and expression, as well as an emphasis on balance, proportion, and symmetry.
Instrumental Music:
1. Rise of Sonata Form: Sonata-allegro form became widely used in instrumental music, consisting of three sections - Exposition, Development, and Recapitulation.
2. String Quartets: The string quartet, consisting of two violins, viola, and cello, became a prominent genre. Famous composers of string quartets include Haydn, Mozart, and Beethoven.
3. Symphonies: The symphony orchestra expanded to include a larger variety of instruments, and symphonies became longer, more complex, and more dramatic in scope.
4. Piano and Keyboard Music: The piano gained prominence during this period, and composers like Mozart, Beethoven, and Clementi wrote sonatas, concertos, and other pieces for the keyboard.
Opera:
5. Opera Seria vs. Opera Buffa: Opera seria, with serious and heroic themes, and opera buffa, featuring comedic plots, were popular forms of opera during the Classical period.
6. Development of Librettos: The emphasis shifted towards more compelling librettos with well-developed characters and dramatic tension.
7. Mozart's Operas: Mozart's operas, such as "The Marriage of Figaro" and "Don Giovanni," showcased his mastery of combining dramatic storytelling with beautiful melodies and ensembles.
Overall Characteristics:
8. Clarity and Simplicity: Classical music is characterized by clear melodies, regular rhythms, and a transparent texture that allows each instrument to be heard distinctly.
9. Balance and Proportion: Pieces were characterized by a sense of balance and symmetry, with sections often echoing and repeating earlier musical materials.
10. Emphasis on Formal Structure: Forms like sonata-allegro, variations, and minuets were strictly followed, providing a consistent framework for musical expression.
11. Use of Ornamentation: Ornamentation was used to enhance melodies and add expressive nuances.
12. Instrumental virtuosity: The Classical period showcased technical prowess and virtuosity of individual instrumentalists.
13. Galant Style: A lighter, more graceful style, known as the Galant style, gained popularity, focusing on elegance, simplicity, and charm.
14. Influence of the Enlightenment: The Classical period coincided with the Enlightenment, emphasizing rationality, order, and clarity, which reflected in the music as well.
These characteristics established the foundation for the music of the Romantic period that would follow.