Classicism in the Arts/Music: Chapters 30-31
Classical Era (1750-1825)
-Characterized by qualities of order, objectivity, and harmonious proportion. Classicists
stress power of art means of communication rather than self-expression.
-Art and architecture like that of ancient Rome and Greece
-Politically, mostly aristrocratic sovereigns throughout Europe. Inherited rights were
prominent. Louis XV in France. Frederick the great in Prussia, Maria Theresa in Austria, and
Catherine the great in Russia.
-American Revolution (1775-1783) French Revolution (1789-1799). Profoundly changed
political systems and social order. Transfer of power from the aristocracy to the middle class
because of capitalism.
-Great advances in science, ideas and Industrial Revolution - mass production. Steam
engine, cotton gin, spinning jenny, Ben Franklin (electricity) and 1st edition of Encyclopedia
Britannica (1771).
-Masters of Classical Era - Haydn, Mozart, and Beethoven, all from Viennese school.
-Lyrical Melodies - singable
-Diatonic Harmonies: tonic and dominant chords, not much chromaticism
-Homophonic Structure: melody with accompanying harmony
-Rhythmic Regularity: 2/4, 3/4, 4/4, or 6/8, strong rhythms and steady tempos.
-Folk Elements: use of folk and pupular elements. German dances and waltzes.
-Patronage System: rulers provided employment, economic security, and a social framework
for composers music to function in.
-Concert life in america mainly focused on the performance of European music. We
"imported" the music of Europe
Classical Era: Chapters 32-33
-Golden age of chamber music (music for 2-12 players)
-String quartet most important form of chamber music
-Duo's, Trio's, Quintets, Serenades, and DIvertimento's also popular
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756-1792)
-Born in Salzburg, Austria. Child Prodigy.
-Composed music before the age of 5
-Father Leopold Mozart was a musician, -organized concert tours to parade young Mozart
around Europe for many royalty patrons
-By age 13, had already composed sonatas, concertos, symphonies, religious works, and
several operas.
-Rebelled against patrons and the patronage system and became free-lance musician.
-Possibly first poor, famous, musician.
-Last 10 years of life spent in Vienna, away from his father
-Endured constant financial struggle
-It has been recorded that the italian composer Antonio Salieri poisoned Mozart but has
never been substantiated.
-Married Constanze Weber against his father's wishes
-Father died at age 35 and was buried in unmarked pauper's grave.
Music:
