Key Terms
DATES
1750 to the 1820s
Broad meaning
"Classical music" is a generic label for Western art music from approximately 900 CE to the present. Used in music store
Specific meaning
"The Classical Period" refers to a distinct historical era (1750-1820s) with its own identifiable musical style. This is
CORE TENET
Faith in human reason above all else.
Key patrons
Empress Maria Theresa and Emperor Joseph II — both strong supporters of the arts, especially music. Money, power, and pa
TEMPO
Remains steady throughout a piece or movement. Does not change.
FOREGROUND RHYTHMS
The patterns of long and short notes in the melody and accompaniment. These change frequently — roughly every few second
Example
Mozart Piano Sonata in C Major — the music stops at approximately 0:25 (section boundary), signals an ending around 0:50
Classical Period
Music history era from 1750 to the 1820s; defined by simplicity, clarity, and variety; centered in Vienna.
Age of Enlightenment
Philosophical movement coinciding with the Classical Period; centered on faith in human reason; source of concepts like
Homophonic texture
One clear melody with harmonic and rhythmic accompaniment. Standard texture of the Classical Period.
Symphony
Major instrumental genre defined during the Classical Period; performed by full orchestra.
Sonata
Major instrumental genre defined during the Classical Period; typically for one or two instruments.
String Quartet
Major instrumental genre defined during the Classical Period; two violins, viola, cello.
Sonata Form
Standardized formal structure developed in the Classical Period. Most tested form in this module.