(Neo) Classical Music(Neo) Classical MusicTransition from Baroque to Romanticism

Neo? ClassicalNeo? ClassicalAlthough the following developments

happened during the time period we are calling “Neoclassical” in class, this period in music is most often referred to in modern times as simply “Classical”

It is important to note that “Classical” music in today’s culture is regarded as a genre as well as a time period. Not all music labeled as “Classical” was composed during this period.

Remember the BaroqueRemember the BaroqueThe Baroque period was known

for its ornamentation. Polyphony (many melodic lines at

once) was a predominant feature of Baroque Music.

Opera Seria was the most common form of opera at the time.

Shifting to the ClassicalShifting to the ClassicalLike in other art forms during this period

an order and clarity was brought to music.

Polyphony was replaced by HomophonyHomophonic music is characterized by a

singular melody over a subordinate (or supporting) harmony.

This allowed the tonal structure of works to become more audible.

This created the need for notating the melodic line for dynamics and phrasing.

OperaOperaPublic taste shifted from Opera

Seria to Comic Opera.The music of Comic Opera was

usual much simpler.The story usually focused on

ordinary people rather than grand historical figures.

Instrumental MusicInstrumental MusicThe fortepiano (the precursor to the

modern piano) replaced the harpsichord.

(The fortepiano is the piano like instrument seen in the film “Amadeus” with the reversed black and white keys and the lighter sound of our modern pianos)

Main types of instrumental music were sonata, trio, string quartet, symphony, concerto, serenade and divertimento

Sonata FormSonata FormThe Sonata Form developed during

this time.NOT to be confused with a SonataThe Sonata Form was a way of

structuring the first movement in a multi-movement composition.

Also called “First movement form” and “Sonata Allegro Form” since the first movement is usually in an allegro tempo

Sonata Form continuedSonata Form continuedThe main parts of the Sonata Form

are:◦Introduction- optional◦Exposition- introduction of theme

(perhaps a melody)◦Development- playing around with

themes form the exposition◦Recapitulation- return to the Exposition

but altered slightly (for emphasis)◦Coda- tag

SymphonySymphonyComposed for full orchestra3-4 movements1st and 4th movement always fast.

◦1st Movement- sonata or allegro◦2nd Movement- a slow movement or

adagio◦3rd Movement- a minuet with trio or

“Beethoven 4 movement solo sonata”◦4th Movement- an allegro, rondo or

sonata.

Wolfgang Amadeus Wolfgang Amadeus MozartMozart1756-1791Born is Salzburg (what is now

Austria)Child prodigy, began composing at

the age of 5Composed for a variety genres

including:◦Opera, sonata, piano concertos,

symphony, string quartet, chamber music, dance music, solo piano.

MozartMozartMost famous works:Eine Kleine Nachtmusik *Piano Concerto 21*Requiem Mass (unfinished)Opera

◦The Marriage of Figaro◦Don Giovanni◦The Magic Flute

Ludwig Van BeethovenLudwig Van BeethovenGerman composer, born in late 1700’sMost famous for continuing to

compose music even after going completely deaf

Also wrote for a variety of genresVery important to the development of

music. He is regarded as the connection between the (Neo)classical period and the Romantic Era.

BeethovenBeethovenMost famous worksFur Elise *9th Symphony “Ode to Joy” *Moonlight Sonata *

Mozart and Beethoven are two of the most famous composers of all time.

Although you may not have recognized the tunes played by name you probably recognize the tunes.

Their tunes are used frequently in movies, TV etc.

(Beethoven’s Moonlight Sonata actually appears in “You’re A Good Man Charlie Brown)