Wednesday, February 4, 2009

Introduction to Classical Music


Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

  • Characteristics of the Classical Style
    • Contrast of Mood
      • Fluctuations in mood
      • Contrasting themes
    • Rhythm
      • Flexibility of rhythm à variety
      • Includes unexpected pauses, syncopations, frequent changes from long to short notes
    • Texture
      • Mostly homophonic
      • Flexible textures à changes at different part of the piece
    • Melody
      • Tuneful, easy to remember
      • Balanced and symmetrical
      • Made up of 2 phrases of same length
      • 2nd phrase ends conclusively
      • Easy to sing
    • Dynamics and the Piano
      • Gradual dynamic changes (crescendo, decrescendo)
      • Replacement of harpsichord by piano
    • The End of the Basso Continuo
      • No need to improvise accompaniment
      • Composers had more control
  • The Classical Orchestra
    • New orchestra
      • Strings: violins, violas, cellos, double basses
      • Woodwinds: flutes, clarinets, bassoons
      • Brass: French horns, trumpets
      • Percussion: timpani
    • Greater number of musicians than in Baroque
    • Strings most important section
      • Melody most of the time
    • Woodwinds: contrasting tone colours, melodic solos
    • Horns and trumpet: power, filled out harmony
    • Timpani: rhythmic bite, emphasis
  • Classical Forms
    • Compositions consist of several movements that contrast in tempo and character
    • Often 4 movements:
      • 1. Fast movement
      • 2. Slow movement
      • 3. Dance-related movement
      • 4. Fast movement
    • Symphonies
      • Written for orchestra
      • 4 movements
    • String quartet
      • Written for 2 violins, viola, cello
      • 4 movements
    • Sonata
      • Written for 1 or 2 instruments
      • 2, 3, or 4 movements

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