Questions and Answers
What years does classicism, as a stylistic period in western music, roughly encompass?
1750-1820
What years does the preclassical period roughly encompass?
1730-1770
When did the fully developed classical style in music flourish?
1770-1820
Which of the following statements is not true of the classical period?
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Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach and _____ were two of the more important preclassical composers.
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Which of the following composers is not considered a master of the classical period?
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Which of the following statements is not true?
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Which of the following characteristics is not typical of the music of the classical period?
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Which of the following statements is not true of the music of the classical period?
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What did the typical orchestra of the classical period consist of?
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Which of the following instruments were not normally included in the classical orchestra?
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What is a symphony?
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What was social mobility during the classical period?
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Political and economic power shifted to the middle class from the aristocracy and the?
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What flavored serious composition during the classical period?
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What did the prospering middle class in the classical period seek?
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Who conducted public concerts presented by the Concert des Amateurs in Paris in the 1770s?
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Which of the following statements is not true?
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Where was Joseph Haydn content to spend most of his life?
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Study Notes
Classical Period Overview
- Classicism in Western music spans from 1750 to 1820.
- The preclassical period is identified as 1730 to 1770.
- The fully developed classical style thrived between 1770 and 1820.
Characteristics of the Classical Period
- Philosophers viewed the era as the "age of enlightenment," acknowledging a major historical turning point.
- The heavy baroque style transitioned to the lighter, intimate rococo style during the early 18th century.
- Rococo was later overshadowed by the neoclassical style, emphasizing simplicity and grandeur akin to ancient Greek and Roman art.
Key Composers
- Significant preclassical figures include Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach and Johann Christian Bach.
- Johann Christian Bach is not classified as a master of the classical period.
Musical Elements
- Composers during this era drew inspiration from folk and popular music.
- Classical compositions are characterized by fluctuating moods, distinguishing them from late baroque pieces which often conveyed singular emotions.
- Unlike late baroque, the basso continuo was not central in classical compositions, marking a shift in orchestral structure.
Orchestra Composition
- A standard classical orchestra consisted of strings, woodwinds, horns, trumpets, and timpani, but typically excluded trombones.
- A symphony is defined as a sonata for orchestra.
Social and Cultural Context
- Social mobility played a crucial role in the emergence of the middle class, shifting political and economic power away from the aristocracy and church.
- Public concerts became popular, with the Concert des Amateurs in Paris conducted by the Chevalier de Saint-Georges.
- Joseph Haydn's employment highlighted his status as a skilled servant within the artistic landscape.
Observations on Music
- Classical melodies are memorable and tuneful, featuring diverse rhythmic patterns.
- The music of the classical period is not fundamentally polyphonic; instead, it is noted for balance and structural clarity.
- Comic operas of this era engaged with middle-class themes, integrating popular tunes while often parodying the aristocracy.
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Test your knowledge of the Classical music period with these flashcards. Covering dates, styles, and key concepts, this quiz will reinforce your understanding of classical music history from 1750-1820. Perfect for students and enthusiasts alike!
