Question

worksheet 3.4 music in history: the classical period

1. what were the years of the classical period?

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1. where does the term \classical\ come from?

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1. who were the three master composers of this era?

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1. what group of people had a big impact on the music of this period?

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1. what did composers do to please middle class tastes in music?

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1. what city was the center of musical activity? (extra credit if you can also name the country where this city is!)

Explanation:

1. The Classical Period in music history is generally considered to span from approximately 1750 - 1820. This was a time of significant musical development with a focus on balance, clarity, and form.
2. The term "classical" comes from the Latin word "classicus", which originally meant "of the highest class" or "superior". In the context of music history, it was used to describe a style that was seen as having a certain level of refinement and adherence to established forms, similar to the ideals of classical antiquity (Greek and Roman art, literature, etc.).
3. The three master composers of the Classical era are Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Ludwig van Beethoven, and Joseph Haydn. Mozart's works are known for their grace and beauty, Haydn is often called the "Father of the Symphony" for his contributions to that musical form, and Beethoven straddled the Classical and Romantic periods, with his later works showing more emotional depth and innovation.
4. The middle - class had a big impact on the music of this period. As the middle - class grew in economic and social power, they became a significant audience for music. They wanted music that was accessible and could be performed in their homes (such as chamber music) or in public concert halls (which were becoming more common).
5. Composers created more accessible and less complex music in some ways to please middle - class tastes. They wrote works that were easier to understand and perform, such as shorter symphonies, more straightforward melodies, and forms that were not overly elaborate. They also composed music for domestic use, like piano sonatas that could be played in middle - class homes.
6. Vienna was the center of musical activity during the Classical period. It was in Austria. Many of the great Classical composers either lived in Vienna (like Mozart and Beethoven) or had significant connections to the city (Haydn also spent a lot of time in Vienna - related musical circles).

Answer:

1. Approximately 1750 - 1820.
2. From the Latin word "classicus" meaning "of the highest class" or "superior".
3. Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Ludwig van Beethoven, and Joseph Haydn.
4. The middle - class.
5. Created more accessible, less complex, and domestic - friendly music (e.g., shorter symphonies, straightforward melodies, piano sonatas).
6. Vienna (Austria).