Which ensembles became standard during the classic period?

The symphony orchestra and string quartet became the standard ensembles during the Classic period. The symphony orchestra typically consisted of four sections: strings, woodwinds, brass, and percussion. The string section included violins, violas, cellos, and double basses. The woodwind section included flutes, oboes, clarinets, and bassoons. The brass section included trumpets, horns, and trombones. The percussion section included timpani, drums, and cymbals.

The string quartet consisted of two violins, a viola, and a cello. This ensemble was popular for chamber music, which was music played in a small, intimate setting.