Questions and Answers
In a classical era work for orchestra or string quartet, the tempos of the four movements typically followed which of the following patterns?
Why did the piano replace the harpsichord?
The piano could play gradual changes in dynamics, which composers liked.
Who were the three master composers of the Classical Era?
Haydn, Mozart, Beethoven
Which best describes the balance and symmetry in a typical melody of the classical era having the form a a'?
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What is one reason that Bass Continuo became obsolete during the classical era?
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Which descriptions accurately portray the orchestra of the Classical period?
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What is a characteristic of the Classical Style?
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The element of music that refers to the loudness or softness of a sound is?
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Which of the following accurately describe the texture of music of the Classical Period in contrast to that of the Baroque Period?
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Which descriptions are general characteristics of Melody in the music of the classical era?
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Which are characteristics of Rhythm in music of the classical era?
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Describe MOOD in Classical-era music, particularly in contrast to Baroque music?
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TRUE or FALSE: Unlike earlier composers, classical composers did not readily substitute one type of instrument for another, such as an oboe for a violin.
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Which of the following were the standard groups of instruments in the orchestra of Haydn or Mozart?
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Late Baroque music was _____ texture while classical music was _______ texture.
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What are the usual functions of instrumental sections in the orchestra of the classical era?
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Which was one of the ways in which composers of the Classical era achieved more expression in their music?
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What instruments make up a string quartet?
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How did classical composers create expression of mood in their music?
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How did classical composers create expression of mood in their music?
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Study Notes
Classical Era Characteristics
- Four-movement orchestral works typically follow a tempo sequence of fast, slow, dance-related, and fast.
- The piano's ability to vary dynamics through finger pressure led to its replacement of the harpsichord.
Key Composers
- The three master composers of the Classical Era are Haydn, Mozart, and Beethoven.
Melody and Structure
- A typical melody features balance and symmetry, often structured in two phrases: one inconclusive followed by a conclusive phrase (form a a').
- Classical melodies are easy to remember, tuneful, and often reflect folk or popular styles.
Orchestra and Instrumentation
- The orchestra during the Classical period included strings, winds, brass, and percussion, with the clarinet becoming more prominent.
- Standard orchestral groups in compositions by Haydn or Mozart consisted of strings, woodwinds, and brass instruments.
Texture and Rhythm
- Music from the Classical Period typically exhibits homophonic texture, contrasting with the polyphonic texture common in the late Baroque.
- Rhythmic characteristics include flexibility, unexpected pauses, syncopations, and varying patterns within movements.
Mood and Expression
- Classical music is marked by contrasts in mood, oscillating between dramatic and carefree. Composers controlled mood changes, emphasizing unity and logic across wide emotional ranges.
- Composers achieved expressive dynamics using techniques like crescendos and decrescendos.
Instrument Functions
- In Classical orchestras, woodwinds provided contrasting tone colors and often played melodies, while strings supplied accompaniment. Brass instruments like French horns and trumpets enhanced loud passages.
Obsolescence of Bass Continuo
- The obsolescence of the bass continuo arose from a shift towards music for amateurs who struggled with figured bass improvisation.
String Quartet Composition
- A string quartet is comprised of two violins, one viola, and one cello, highlighting the ensemble's harmonic richness in Classical music.
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Description
Test your knowledge of the classical style of music with this quiz based on Music 1100, Chapter 1. Explore key concepts such as tempo patterns and the evolution of musical instruments. Perfect for students looking to reinforce their understanding of classical music elements.