Classical Concerto Structure & Symphony Form Quiz

Study Notes

Classical Music Forms

A classical symphony is a lengthy composition for orchestra, consisting of multiple sections called movements.
It is considered the highest form of music in the Classical Period due to its complexity and large layer of timbre and instrumental sections.

Concerto

A concerto is a composition with three movements, beginning with a sonata-allegro comparable to the classical symphony.
In the Classical Period, concertos were written for the keyboard or other instruments of the orchestra, due to the limited availability of instruments.
The "Cadenza" is a highlight of the concerto.

Chamber Music

Chamber music does not require a conductor, as musicians are sensitive enough to coordinate.
Examples of chamber music include a string quartet, string quintet, piano trio, and others.

Renowned Composers

Franz Joseph Haydn

Haydn was a prolific composer, with creative works including:
- 108 symphonies
- 68 string quartets
- 32 divertimenti for small orchestra
- 126 trios for baryton, viola, and cello
- 29 trios for piano, violin, and cello
- 21 trios for two violins and cello
- 47 piano sonatas
- 20 operas
- 14 masses
- 6 oratorios
- 2 cello concerti

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

Mozart was considered a musical prodigy, showcasing his musical ability at an early age.
He and his sister played as child prodigies in the imperial courts in Vienna and Prague.
Mozart came from a musical family, with his father being a violin teacher and leader of the local orchestra.
His father exposed him to countless musical performances and taught him to play and write music.

Ludwig Van Beethoven

Beethoven was an innovator of musical forms, widening the scope of the symphony, sonata, concerto, and quartet.
He enriched both the orchestra and the quartet with a new range of sonority and variety of texture, and expanded their forms.

Vocal Forms

Opera Buffa

Opera Buffa, also known as Comic Opera, is a bright, sentimental, funny, and exciting performance.
It reflects the social changes of the period, featuring stories about real people in real situations, often performed in a comic or funny manner.

Opera Seria

Opera Seria, also known as "serious opera", is an opera with the emphasis on very ornamented arias rather than plot line.
It features ancient heroes and nobility, and is characterized by its ornate and elaborate style.

Description

Test your knowledge of multi-movement forms in classical music with a focus on symphonies and concertos. Learn about the structures, movements, and characteristics of these grand orchestral compositions from the Classical Period.