The Classical Era

1. The Classical Era 1750-1820

2. “Classicism” • Classicism, in the arts, refers generally to a high regard for classical antiquity (arts, architecture, etc.), as setting standards for taste which the classicist seeks to emulate. The art of classicism typically seeks to be formal and restrained – en.Wikipedia.org

3. Classical origins - Architecture • From the point of view of modern times, the ancient civilizations of the Mediterranean sometimes seem to blend smoothly into one mix we call the Classical. • Further divided, the period includes: • Greek architecture • Hellenistic architecture • Roman architecture

4. Greek Classicism

6. “Classical” influence • The clean and simple style of the ancient classical period appealed to people who were looking for new ideas and direction • Artists (architects, composers, painters, etc.) began to mimic the clean lines and style of ancient classicism

7. Schonbrunn Palace, Vienna

9. Belvedere Palace, Vienna

12. Socio-Economic Structure • The aristocracy (ruled by the best) is the dominant force of the time and are the primary patrons of the arts. • Music is driven by this patronage – composers are hired by royalty to work in-house (court composer), emperors employ composers, and music is written to please these patrons, who desire impersonal but tuneful and elegant music • Class division intensifies

13. Socio-economic con’t • Sacred (religious) music still exists, but is supplanted by secular (non-religious) music as the primary outlet for composers • Public concerts grow in popularity

14. Homophony • Dominant melody with accompanying voices • Much simpler and “cleaner” than polyphony

15. Musical Changes • Music was written for specific ensembles and instruments • Musical elements were much more clearly defined • Form became much more clearly defined: Sonata, Concerto • Technological developments – clarinet, brass (but no valves, yet)

17. Sonata Form • The most popular form of the classical era • Introduction – optional • Exposition – Subject (in home key), transition (to a new key), Subject II (in a different key – usually the dominant), Codetta • Development – Thematic and harmonic development takes place, then “retransitions” to the main key • Recapitulation – Restatement of all original subjects, now all in the home key • Coda

18. Vienna • Musically, the centre of the universe in the 17th century • Haydn, Mozart and Beethoven all lived most of their musical lives in this city • Beethoven is buried here