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This document covers the life and works of classical composers, focusing on the Classical period's music characteristics and significant figures like Haydn, Mozart, and Beethoven. It highlights the evolution of musical forms such as sonata, concerto, and symphony, emphasizing their structural clarity and emotional expression. The document also discusses the impact of these composers on modern music and their enduring legacy in various media.

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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
11 views24 pages

All Lessons

This document covers the life and works of classical composers, focusing on the Classical period's music characteristics and significant figures like Haydn, Mozart, and Beethoven. It highlights the evolution of musical forms such as sonata, concerto, and symphony, emphasizing their structural clarity and emotional expression. The document also discusses the impact of these composers on modern music and their enduring legacy in various media.

Uploaded by

FREE
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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QUARTER 1 – LESSON 9

LESSON 1 – LIFE AND WORKS OF THE CLASSICAL


COMPOSERS

CONTENT STANDARD
The learner demonstrates an understanding of the traits and attributes of the music of the
classical period.

PERFORMANCE STANDARD
The learner plays classical music using any materials that can create sound.

LEARNING COMPETENCIES
☼ Discuss the life and works of famous classical composers.
☼ Listen to some of the well-known classical music of famous classical composers that are
used in modern music.

The initial three periods of Western Music History are Medieval Renaissance and Baroque. Every
period has its particular trademark, historical, and cultural background.

That three-era witnessed the creation of several musical genres which would maintain a
hold on composition for years to come, yet it was the Classical period which saw the introduction
of a form which has dominated instrumental composition to the present day: sonata form. With it
came the development of the modern concerto, symphony, sonata, trio and quartet to a new peak
of structural and expressive refinement.
QUARTER 1 – LESSON 9

The classical age were sown by lots of composers whose names are now forgotten such
as Schubert and Honnauer (both Germans largely active in Paris), as well as more historically
respected names, including Gluck, Boccherini and at least three of Johann Sebastian Bach's sons:
Carl Phillip Emmanuel, Wilhelm Friedmann and Johann Christian (the so-called 'London' Bach). They
were representative of a period which is variously described as rococo or galante, the former
implying a gradual move away from the artifice of the High Baroque, the latter an entirely novel
style based on symmetry and sensibility, which came to dominate the music of the latter half of
the 18th century through two composers of extraordinary significance: Joseph Haydn and Wolfgang
Amadeus Mozart.

Classical music has a lighter, clearer texture than Baroque music and is less complex. It is
mainly homophonic, using a clear melody line over a subordinate chordal accompaniment.

Most present day music fans would most likely find it odd to learn that the music of the
Classical Era developed from a search for a simpler, cleaner, more humanistic musical expression
with universal qualities and appeal.

While most well-known music styles are generally written in melody structure, old-style
music is noted for its advancement of sophisticated instrumental musical forms, similar to the
concerto, ensemble, and sonata. Old style music is likewise noted for its utilization of refined
vocal/instrumental structures, such as opera.

Classical music still matters since it holds within it the core elements of the natural
characteristic of a person, and raw emotions unaffected by human interference and silly ideas of
society in any time of history.

Three major figures of the Classical Era are Haydn, Mozart, and Beethoven. As essential as
they are to appreciating Classical Era music, there were other talented composers and works
worth noting from the time. They differed in style, skill, innovation, and popularity.

Music of Haydn, Mozart and Beethoven are still popular today. Their musical compositions
are often used as music in animated movies, cartoons, and large group of movie companies.
QUARTER 1 – LESSON 9

THE LIFE AND WORKS OF CLASSICAL COMPOSERS

The Austrian composer Franz Joseph Haydn (1732 – 1809) was one of the most important
figures in the development of the Classical style of music during the 18th century. He helped
establish the forms and styles for the string quartet and symphony. Haydn was a prolific composer,
and some of his most well-known works are Symphony No. 92 in G Major, Emperor Quartet, and
Cello Concerto No. 2 in D Major. His compositions are often characterized as light, witty, and
elegant. The movie hit “Bird Box“ features his composition Piano Sonata No. 47 in B Minor.

Haydn had a hard childhood: at six years old he had to work as a boy singer in a choir and
after his voice broke he had to earn his money by playing dance music and serving as a butler.
Becoming famous for his compositions Haydn was employed as "Kapellmeister" by Fuerst Esterhazy
in Eisenstadt in 1761. For thirty years he served him and composed his pieces for the pleasure of
the aristocrats; his musicians used to call him "Papa Haydn" as he was caring for them and was
socially engaged. After the death of Esterhazy, Haydn moved to Vienna leaving it only twice for
London where he composed his "London symphonies".

An Austrian composer of the Classical period, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756 – 1791) is
widely recognized as one of the greatest composers of Western music. He is the only composer
to write and excel in all of the musical genres of his time. Rumored to have had the ability to play
music at age three and to write music at age five, Mozart began his career as a child prodigy.
Notable compositions include The Marriage of Figaro, Elvira Madigan, and Clarinet Quintet in A Major,
K 581.

Mozart was already playing violin and harpsichord at the age of five. At six, he was
recognized as an exceptional pianist and composing excellent music at the age of seven. At the
age of thirteen, he had written sonatas, concertos, symphonies, religious works and operas. He
was known and experimented in all kinds of music and composed hundreds. Unfortunately, due to
mismanaged finances he lived his life in poverty. He died young and was buried in an unknown grave.
QUARTER 1 – LESSON 9

LESSON 2 – MUSIC OF THE CLASSICAL PERIOD

Sonata
A multi-movement work for solo instrument, Sonata came from the word “Sonare“ which
means to make a sound. This term is applied to a variety of works for solo instrument such as
keyboard or violin.There are 3 movements in of Sonata:
1st Movement: Allegro-fast movement
2nd Movement: Andante-slow movement
3rd Movement: Minuet-it is in three-four time and in a moderate or fast tempo

Sonata Allegro Form

The most important form that developed during the Classical era consists of 3 distinct
sections:
1. Exposition - the first part of a composition in sonata form that introduces the theme.
2. Development – is the middle part of the sonata-allegro form wherein themes are being
developed.
3. Recapitulation – repeats the theme as they first emerge in the opening exposition.

Concerto

Concerto is a multi-movement work designed for an instrumental soloist and orchestra. It


is a classical form of music intended primarily to emphasize the individuality of the solo
instrument and to exhibit the virtuosity and interpretative abilities of the performer. The solo
instruments in classical concertos include violin, cello, clarinet, bassoon, trumpet, horn and piano.
A concerto has three movements: fast, slow, and fast.

Symphony

A multi-movement for orchestra, the symphony is derived from the word “Sinfonia“ which
means “a harmonious sounding together“. It is a classical music for the whole orchestra,
generally in four movements.
QUARTER 1 – LESSON 9

The records of exercises are given for you to have a more profound understanding and
appreciation of Classical music. The exercises will moreover assist you create your capacity to
analyze music through tuning in. But to begin with, let’s have a recap on Classical music.

The music of the Classical time has lighter and clearer surface. It is basically homophonic.
The song is basic and simple to remember.

Tuning into Classical music might not be your choice because most of you’d or maybe
sing songs or tune in to music which for you’d grant satisfaction and would make you are feeling
great. But without knowing it, now and then you’re as of now really singing or tuning in to
Classical music.

The German composer and pianist Ludwig van Beethoven (1770 – 1827) is widely regarded
as the greatest composer who ever lived. He started learning piano around age 4, taught by his
father. He had a natural gift, and got good quickly. He expanded the Classical traditions of Joseph
QUARTER 1 – LESSON 9

Haydn, one of his teachers, and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and experimented with personal
expression, a characteristic that influenced the Romantic composers who succeeded him.
His life and career were marked by progressive deafness, yet the malady did not prevent
him from composing some of his most important works during the last 10 years of his life when he
was nearly unable to hear. Widening the scope of sonata, symphony, concerto, and quartet,
Beethoven’s notable works include Symphony No. 9 in D Minor, Op. 125, Symphony No. 5 in C Minor,
Op. 67, Moonlight Sonata, and Für Elise.

The Symphony No. 5 in C minor of Ludwig van Beethoven, Op. 67, was written between 1804
and 1808. It is one of the best-known compositions in classical music and one of the most
frequently played symphonies, and it is widely considered one of the cornerstones of western
music. It is being played in cartoon movies like Tom and Jerry.
QUARTER 1 – LESSON 9

LESSON 3 – COMPOSERS OF THE CLASSICAL PERIOD

Franz Joseph Hayden (1732-1809)

He is one of the foremost unmistakable composers of the Classical Period. His life depicts
as a “rags-to-riches“ story. He came from a destitute family and his music driven to rise in social
status. He was enlisted by wealthy supporters and executive for the Esterhazy family for 30years.

His music reflects his character and identity: basically calm, adjusted, genuine but with
touches of humor. He was able to compose over 100 symphonies and created them into long shapes
for expansive ensemble. He was named, “Father of the Symphony“ in spite of the fact that he
exceeded expectations in each music sort of the period. Most of his ensembles have nicknames
such as the “Surprise Symphony“, “The Clock“, and “The Military“. He moreover composed chamber
piano music and choral works.

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756-1791)

He is a child wonder and the foremost astonishing virtuoso in melodic history. At age five, he
was as of now playing the violin and the harpsichord; at six, he was recognized as an extraordinary
piano player, and at seven, he was as of now composing fabulous music. At age thirteen, he had
composed sonatas, concertos, ensembles, devout works, and musical dramas and operettas.

He tested in all sorts of music and composed over 700 works. Shockingly, due to fumbled
funds he lived his life in destitution, kicked the bucket youthful, and was buried in an obscure grave.
He composed brilliant concertos, symphonies, and operas such as “The Marriage of Figaro“ (1786),
“Don Giovanni“ (1789), and “The Magic Flute “which became popular.

Ludwig Van Beethoven (1770-1827)

He was born in Bon, Germany to a family of perform and studied music at an early age. He
was the composer who bridged the late Classical era and the early Romantic era. He was a skilled
piano player and composer. His celebrated compositions incorporate 32 piano sonatas, 21 set of
variations, 9 symphonies, 5 concertos for piano, 16 string quartets, and choral music.

His works include the “Missa Solemnis“ (1818-1832) and opera “Fidelio“ (1805). He began to go
deaf in 1796 but this did not ended up an obstacle. He proceeded composing through the assistance
QUARTER 1 – LESSON 9

of a partner and hearing contraption. A few of his popular compositions were made when he was
deaf.

At the conclusion of the unit, you must have information of the taking after concept. Classical
music alludes to the period from 1750-1820. It is additionally known as the “Age of Reason“ or
“Age of Enlightenment“ because reason and independence instead of convention were emphasized
in this period.

Amid this period, distinctive instrumental shapes of music were created. These were
sonata, concerto, and symphony. These three most prominent and most well-known composers of
the period are: Franz Joseph Haydn, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, and Ludwig Van Beethoven.
QUARTER 1 – LESSON 9

LESSON 4 –CLASSICAL PERIOD MUSIC

Music of the classical period is also known as the “Age of Reason“ from 1750-1820. This
was preceded by the Baroque period. The track of the Baroque tended to be pretty complex; it
is still high-quality and known for its use of counterpoints, in which a couple of simultaneous
melodies compete for attention. A single, clear melody supported by means of a pleasing concord
becomes taken into consideration.

Baroque melodies tend to run on breathlessly for any number of measures. The ideals of
neoclassicism, on the opposite hand, called for balanced, well-proportioned structures, so the
precise classical melody was constructed from an even variety of terms of equal length. This
type of composing gives a balanced structure that makes the melodies easy for the average
character to sing and remember.

This emphasis on clarity and ease inside a balanced shape does seem to have had the effect that
those composers of the Enlightenment were seeking-an art music with an unusually customary
appeal – and the effects were far-reaching.

FAMOUS COMPOSERS:

☼ Austrian composer (Viennese School)


QUARTER 1 – LESSON 9

☼ Composed the following:


o Over 100 symphonies (6 “Paris“ No. 82-87; 12 “London“ Nos.93-104
o Concertos, Sonatas and Chamber music (68 String Quartets, piano trios
o and divertimenti)
o Sacred and Secular Vocal Music
▪ -14 Masses, Oratorios (The Creation and The Seasons), Folk songs

Top 5 Famous Compositions:


☼ String Quartets, Op.64 Nos. 1-6
☼ String Quartets, Op.76 Nos. 1-6
☼ The Seven Last Words of Christ On The Cross
☼ Missa In Angustiis (Nelson Mass)
☼ The Creation

☼ Austrian composer, master of all genres (Child prodigy, Musical Genius, and an Eccentric)
☼ Traveled and performed throughout Europe
☼ Composed the following:
o Orchestral music – 40 Symphonies (Divertimentos, Serenades, Marches, Dances)
o Concertos – 27 for piano, 5 for violin, etc.
QUARTER 1 – LESSON 9

o Operas – The Marriage of Figaro; Don Giovanni; The Magic Flute, etc.
o Choral Music – Masses, The Requiem K.626

Top 5 Famous Compositions:

☼ Overture from The Marriage of Figaro, K492


☼ Symphony No.41 in C, K551 – Jupiter
☼ Requiem Mass in D minor, K626
☼ Quintet in A for Clarinet and Strings, K581
☼ Piano Concerto No. 23 in A, K488

☼ German composer, transitional figure from the Classical to Romantic Era


☼ Enigmatic composer in a changing world
☼ Depended mainly on concerts and publications. Made his name as a piano player
☼ when he first move to Vienna
☼ Produced his most profound works after turning deaf
☼ Composed the following:
o 9 Symphonies, Overtures, and Incidental music
o Concertos: 5 for piano, 1 for violin and 1 triple concerto
o Chamber music : String quartets, Sonatas, Serenades, etc.
o 32 Piano Sonatas : Op.13 “Pathetique“, Moonlight, etc
QUARTER 1 – LESSON 9

o 1 Opera : “Fidelio“
o Choral Music and Songs : “Missa Solemnis“, song cycle etc.

Top 5 Famous Compositions:

☼ Symphony No. 3 in E flat, Op.55 – Eroica


☼ Symphony No. 9 in Dm, Op. 125
☼ Piano Sonata No. 30 in E, Op. 109
☼ String Quarter No. 14 in C#m, Op.131
☼ Piano Concerto No. 5 in E flat major

CHARACTERISTICS OF CLASSICAL MUSIC


☼ Less complicated texture than Baroque (more homophonic).
☼ Emphasis on beauty, elegance and balance.
☼ More variety and contrast within a piece than Baroque (dynamics, instruments, pitch, tempo,
key, mood and timbre).
☼ Melodies tend to be shorter than those in Baroque, with clear-cut phrases, and clearly
marked cadences
☼ The orchestra increases in size and range. The harpsichord fails out of use. The woodwind
becomes a self-contained section
☼ The piano takes over as main keyboard instrument.
☼ Importance was given to instrumental music – sonata, trio, string quartet, symphony,
concerto.
☼ Sonata form was the most important design.

MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS

• Violin - Double Basses


STRINGS
• Violas - Cellos

• Flute - Clarinets
WOODWINDS • Oboes - Bassoons
• Piccolo - Contrabassoon
QUARTER 1 – LESSON 9

BRASS • French horns


• Trumpets
• Trombones

PERCUSSION • Timpani
QUARTER 1 – LESSON 9

LESSON 5 – MUSICAL ELEMENTS OF THE CLASSICAL


PERIOD

ELEMENTS OF MUSIC IN THE CONTEXT OF CLASSICAL PERIOD

Simple Recall: It is important to consider the different elements of music as basis for
understanding the music of the Classical period.

Basic Elements of Music and its related terms:


☼ Rhythm: (beat, meter, tempo, syncopation)
☼ Dynamics: (forte, piano, [etc.], crescendo, decrescendo)
☼ Melody: (pitch, theme, conjunct, disjunct)
☼ Harmony: (chord, progression, consonance, dissonance, key, tonality, atonality)
☼ Tone color: (register, range, instrumentation)
☼ Texture: (monophonic, homophonic, polyphonic, imitation, counterpoint)
☼ Form: (binary, ternary, strophic, through-composed)

What Is It

Music of the Classical period has a texture that is mainly homophonic. Most melodies is
being accompanied in chordal. Variety and contrast within a piece became more evident. The use
of varying keys, melodies, rhythms and dynamics is a common practice along with frequent
changes of mood. They made use of larger size orchestra and the harpsichord fell out of use
and was replaced by the piano (or fortepiano). Importance was given to instrumental music and
sonata form developed.

Beethoven is believed to be a transitional figure between the Classical and Romantic eras
of musical history. He created large, extended musical structures characterized by the extensive
development of musical material, themes, and motifs, usually by means of “modulation“, that is, a
change in the feeling of the home key. Beethoven’s works are divided in three periods: an early
period which his works shows the influence of Mozart and Haydn; a middle, mature period which
he developed his distinctive style and a late period in which he wrote works of a highly evolved
and unorthodox style.
QUARTER 1 – LESSON 9

LESSON 6 – CLASSICAL MUSIC TO OTHER ART FORMS


AND ITS HISTORY WITH THE ERA

History

The classical Era, also called “Age of Reason“, is the period from 1750-1820. The cultural life
was dominated by the aristocracy, as patrons of musicians and artists generally influenced the
arts. Significant changes in musical forms and styles were made. In general, classical era is used
in opposition to the ideas of popular music and folk music. Popular and folk music both tend to
feature works that are immediately appealing and "understandable", even to people who have
little musical training or knowledge. This immediate appeal usually comes from an underlying
simplicity; folk and popular music’s often feature short or repetitive forms, driving rhythms that
encourage movement and dance, melodies and harmonies that are comfortably within their
traditions.
In the middle of the 18th century, European began to move a new style in architecture,
literature, and the arts, known as classicism. It was also pushed forward by changes in the
economic order and in social structure. Instrumental music was patronized primarily by the nobility.
Important historical events that occurred in the West during this era were the French Revolution
and the Napoleonic Wars, the American declaration of Independence in 1776, and the American
Revolution.
The term classical denotes conformity with the principles and characteristics of ancient
Greek and Roman literature art which were formal, elegant, simple, freed, and dignified. The same
characteristics may also describe the melodies of classical music. Harmony and texture is
homophonic in general. The dynamics of loud and soft was clearly shown through the extensive
use of crescendo and diminuendo. A style of broken chord accompaniment called Alberti bass was
practiced.
In the case of music, as in other arts, the term ’classical’ indicates the presence of an
established or long-standing tradition. While the roots of classical music extend back to Gregorian
chant, three developments occurring in the 11th century are often regarded as marking the
beginning of the classical tradition in western music. These are the developments of polyphony,
the principles of order, and the establishment of musical pieces as compositions. The classical
tradition is centrally defined by European art music composed during the Common Practice period,
which encompasses Baroque, Classical, and Romantic music (roughly 1650-1900). It also includes
Medieval, Ars Nova, and Renaissance art music, as well as non-European, 20th century, and
contemporary art music that incorporates compositional practices that are recognized as being
well-established in western art music. While the vast majority of compositions in Western art music
unambiguously fall under the category of ’classical music’, one can argue that, though there will be
no decisive line, certain highly experimental or innovative pieces cannot be a part of an established
tradition of composition and thus should not be considered ’classical’.
QUARTER 1 – LESSON 9

In contrast to the aesthetics of popular music, the aesthetics of classical music has
traditionally focused on aesthetic content that is strictly musical in nature, excluding any additional
content conveyed through words, actions, visual displays, or any other non-musical elements. It
has typically limited itself to inquiry into the aesthetic content in musical works that is available
from music alone, considered apart from any non-musical elements. Although there are clearly
topics of significant interest in the additional aesthetic qualities of classical works that include
non-musical elements (whether these be semantic, poetic, dramatic, or dance-related), most
philosophers writing about classical music have been unwilling to venture into this territory. The
focus on music as such in the aesthetics of classical music is due to the compelling philosophical
questions generated by pure or ’absolute’ music, the complexity involved in considering music in
combination with non-musical elements, and a desire to understand the art of music apart from
any aesthetic content contributed from other sources. In keeping with the historical focus of the
aesthetics of classical music on music as such, this article restricts itself to discussion of aesthetic
content that is purely musical in nature and it does not address topics involving the combination of
music with other aesthetic elements.
Several features of classical music as an art form play a central role in defining the areas
of aesthetic inquiry that pertain to it. Three features in particular deserve attention. These are
the unique impact classical music has on our inner experience, its temporal nature, and the central
role played by the tradition of tonal harmony, even after its “collapse“ at the beginning of the 20th
century.
In the historical tradition, classical music gradually expands its artistic resources, from the
practices of medieval polyphony, through the incorporation of new elements in the Renaissance,
to the achievement of a conception of music and musical composition that is shared across Europe
by the middle of the Baroque. The subsequent development of classical music during the Common
Practice period is unique in the way that it preserves a strong continuity in compositional
techniques while at the same time evolving continually as an art form. The late works from this
period make use of the same basic musical materials (scales and chords) as the early ones: the
diatonic scales, triadic functional harmony, primary organization around the dominant-tonic
relationship, integration of vertical and horizontal dimensions, and so on. Early works differ from
later ones in countless ways, but the fundamental musical materials and relationships do not change
until the extended chromaticism of late romantic music begins to dissolve a sense of the tonic
altogether. Later works differ from earlier ones primarily through creative innovations that are
compatible with existing tonal system made by particular composers and through a gradual
exploration and expansion of resources already implied in the tonal system itself. This gradual
expansion within the context of a continuous tradition has significant implications for the
expressive possibilities classical music possesses as an art form, allowing for the emergence of a
repertoire of expressive compositional techniques that grows in effectiveness and scope as it
progressively develops the potential that is inherent in tonal harmony.
The diverse compositional approach developed in classical music in the early part of the
20th century has questions for musical aesthetics. Many aesthetic theories based on analysis of
music of the Common Practice period do not apply to compositions based on approaches divergent
from those used by tonal harmony. This difference in aesthetic content applies to theories of
meaning, form, and expressiveness. Most influential and contemporary philosophers of classical
musical aesthetics focus almost exclusively on tonal classical music (including music that achieves
a tonal center by means other than tonal harmony, as found in the music of Stravinsky, Debussy,
QUARTER 1 – LESSON 9

and Bartok). Given that many of these theoretical perspectives do not apply to non-tonal music,
the aesthetics of non-tonal classical music is an area that is in need of further development by
the discipline.

Main characteristics

Classical music has a lighter, clearer texture than Baroque music and is less complex. It is
mainly homophonic—melody above chordal accompaniment (but counterpoint is by no means
forgotten, especially later in the period). It also makes use of Style gallant in the classical period
which was drawn in opposition to the structures of the Baroque style, emphasizing light elegance
in place of the Baroque’s dignified seriousness and impressive grandeur.

Variety and contrast within a piece became more pronounced than before. Variety of keys,
melodies, rhythms and dynamics (using crescendo, diminuendo and sforzando), along with frequent
changes of mood and timbre were more common place in the Classical period than they had been
in the Baroque. Melodies tended to be shorter than those of Baroque music, with clear-cut phrases
and clearly marked cadences. The orchestra increased in size and range; the harpsichord continuo
fell out of use, and the woodwind became a self-contained section. As a solo instrument, the
harpsichord was replaced by the piano (or fortepiano). Early piano music was light in texture, often
with Alberti bass accompaniment, but it later became richer, more sonorous and more powerful.
Importance was given to instrumental music—the main kinds were sonata, trio, string quartet,
symphony, concerto, serenade and divertimento. Sonata form developed and became the most
important form. It was used to build up the first movement of most large-scale works, but also
other movements and single pieces (such as overtures).

Difference between Classical music to 21st century music

Classical (1750 - 1830) Music from the Classical period shifted away from the Baroque
period's emphasis on polyphonic texture and more towards a single melody with accompaniment.
This created music with less texture but with a more clearly defined melody. Characteristics of
Classical music include: single melody with accompaniment, one voice carries the primary melody
while another voice plays a simpler line that supports the melody, larger variety of keys, melodies,
rhythms, and dynamics, more contrast in a piece, shorter, clearer melodies than in Baroque music,
more emphasis on instrumental music. The primary forms of compositions are: sonata, trio, string
quartet, symphony, and concerto.
Contemporary (1920- present): The most conspicuous differentiation between classical
music in the contemporary period and in previous periods is the shift in tone. Whereas music from
QUARTER 1 – LESSON 9

the common practice period was largely tonal, much contemporary music is atonal. Contemporary
classical music can be divided into: 20th-century Contemporary Classical Music: Varies greatly, no
dominant style, increased use of dissonance. And 21st-century Contemporary Classical Music: huge
variety in style, which include minimalism, experimentalism, contains a variety of influences from
world music to technology, and many classical composers have written for film scores.

The Importance of Classical Music in a Modern World

In a society focused on the latest technology, dance crazes, and what is trending on social
media, it is easily understood why so many believe the art of classical music is in many ways
irrelevant. However, with more music being produced in today’s era than ever before, and with
many artist drawing inspiration from classical pieces, this old art form is long from dead. Over the
centuries, classical music has transformed itself to become a building block, setting the framework
for musicians of all types today. Many studies have even shown that music especially learning or
listening to classical can have a wide variety of benefits.
Whether you are interested in rock, pop or even rap, the musical influence from classical
composers, though sometimes hidden, can become clear the more you study music’s history.
Further, classical composers such as Bach, Schubert and Mozart, despite how long ago their music
was composed remains relevant because of how it played such a major factor into the evolution
of music and its genres. An example of music’s evolution due to one of these composers was when
Bach wrote the piece Prelude and Fugue Number 20 in A Minor, a composition that combined Bach’s
classical style with a more modern approach, which was later deemed the first Jazz song. Also,
the structure of almost every popular song in today’s musical era can be traced back to Schubert’s
creation of the three minute, verse-chorus based song. Schubert, though he was a classical
composer, wanted to create short melodic songs that everyone could enjoy, this lead him after
writing hundreds of pieces to perfect the design of music, we are very familiar with today. Mozart
similarly to Schubert came up with his own structure of music in which many of his pieces were
simplistic in comparison to the earlier work of Bach. Mozart found that a four chord melody, similar
to that of modern pop and rock music, though simple could be beautiful. This simple method
allowed him to become one of the most well known composers of all time.
Though the roots of music is important, classical music’s reach extends further than just a
step in music’s evolution. In fact, many popular artists in today’s music industry have a close
relationship to classical music. A large portion of today’s musicians grew up playing some sort of
classical instrument such as the piano or violin, because reading music is such a transferable skill
in the music industry. The relationship between modern and classical music is especially shown with
artists such as Onerepublic, Coldplay, U2, Justin Bieber, Jon Bellion, Childish Gambino, Adele, Avicii
and many more have used or adapted classical music into their works. Playing or listening to
classical music has a wide variety of benefits. Both playing and listening to music can be a great
stress reliever. It has been proven that playing any type of music can increase a person’s
intelligence; this is due to the fact that music can relate to so many other academic subjects. The
way in which musical notes are written in a set of different fractions help with early on math skills
because they help give real examples of how numbers can be broken down and even multiplied by
a set tempo. As well, once you are able to play a piece or song after a while, music gives you a
sense of accomplishment and can boost your overall confidence. Also, playing music especially at
high levels music can increase one’s creativity. Since music education stimulates your emotional
QUARTER 1 – LESSON 9

and cognitive abilities, it can allow our brain to think in new and different ways. Overall, whether
you have learned several different instruments, or simply listen to music, the influence of classical
music is undeniable. Though many believe classical music is a dying art form, its longevity allows
for it to remain relevant in today’s society and in ones to come.
QUARTER 1 – LESSON 9

LESSON 7 – MUSICAL ACCOMPANIMENT TO SELECTED


CLASSICAL MUSIC FROM CLASSICAL PERIOD

The classical era which roughly starts from the death of J.S Bach in 1750 to the deaths of
Beethoven in 1872? In this era, Mozart, Beethoven and Haydn are the most talented and well-
known composers. Development of music takes place in where orchestra become standardized.
The classical orchestra was consisting of string instruments (first and second violins, violas,
violoncellos, double basses), two flutes, two oboes, two clarinets, two bassoons, two to four horns,
two trumpets and two timpani. Later Haydn introduces clarinet as part of the wind instruments. In
Military Symphony (no. 100) he introduces some percussion instruments like triangle, hand cymbals,
and bass drum.

Classical music departs from baroque style in that sometimes several voices may move
together as chords involving both hands, to form brief phrases without any passing tones. Though
such motifs were used sparingly by Mozart, they were taken up much more liberally by Beethoven
and Schubert. Such chords also appeared to some extent in baroque keyboard music, such as the
3rd movement theme in Bach's Italian Concerto. But at that time such a chord often appeared
only in one clef at a time, (or one hand on the keyboard) and did not form the independent phrases
found more in later music.

Beethoven and Mozart cultivated mood markings such as con amore, appassionato,
cantabile, and espressivo. In fact, it is perhaps because improvisation is spontaneous that it is akin
to the communication of love.

Accompaniment, in music, auxiliary part or parts of a composition designed to support the


principal part or to throw it into relief. In secular medieval music and in much folk and non-European
music, instrumental accompaniments for singers accommodates unison or octave duplications of
the melody (sometimes with slight differences, creating heterophony, the simultaneous
performance of variant versions of the identical melody), of novel rhythmic features, or of a
drone (sustained note or notes) played on wind or stringed instruments. In 16th-century European
music, solo songs were sung with simple lute accompaniments, both chordal and contrapuntal (using
interwoven melodic lines).

At the beginning of the 17th century, the introduction of thorough bass or basso continuo
takes place. This is a type of harmonic accompaniment improvised at the harpsichord or organ
and based on chords that the composer indicated by figures. By 18th century, J.S. Bach his sonatas
and solo cantatas are accompanied by thorough bass. The accompaniment thus assumed a role as
important as that of the soloist.
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The term obbligato accompaniment came to be applied to accompaniments of this kind, as


hostile impromptu accompaniment, the unessential ornamentation or the optional reduplication of
a component, performed on a secondary instrument. Obbligato accompaniments were sometimes
written out, among them one originally improvised by Bach for a movement of his Sonata in B Minor
for flute and harpsichord. In the second half of the 18th century the obbligato accompaniment
assumed a primary role, gaining increased complexity and musical substance while the solo
instrument was reduced to the role of an ad libitum accompaniment. Thus, Mozart followed the
example of a contemporary composer, Johann Schobert, in writing four sonatas for harpsichord
accompanied by the violin.

Accompaniment is the musical half that provides the rhythmical and/or harmonic support
for the melody or main themes of a song or instrumental piece. There are many alternative designs
and kinds of accompaniment in numerous genres and designs of music. In homophonic music, the
most accompaniment approach utilized in music genre, a transparent vocal melody is supported by
subordinate chords. In music genre and ancient music, the accompaniment elements usually give
the "beat" for the music and description the chord progression of the song or instrumental piece.

The accompaniment for a vocal melody or instrumental solo are often compete by one
musician enjoying an instrument like piano, pipe organ, or guitar. Whereas any instrument will in
theory be used as an accompaniment instrument, keyboard and guitar-family instruments tend to
be used if there's solely one instrument, as these instruments will play chords and bass lines at the
same time (chords and a bass line are easier to play at the same time on keyboard instruments,
however a fingerpicking musician will play chords and a bass line at the same time on guitar). A
solo singer will accompany herself by enjoying stringed instrument or piano whereas she sings, and
in some rare cases, a solo singer will even accompany himself or herself simply victimisation his
or her voice and body

Alternatively, the accompaniment to a vocal melody or instrumental solo are often


provided by a musical ensemble, in size from a pair (e.g., string and piano; stringed instrument
and double bass; synthesizer and percussion); a trio (e.g., a rock power trio of electrical stringed
instrument, electrical bass associate with drum kit; an organ trio); a quartet (e.g., a string
quartette in musical genre will accompany a solo singer; a rock group or section in rock and pop;
a jazz quartet in jazz); all the thanks to larger ensembles, like concert bands, huge Bands (in
jazz), pit orchestras in musical theatre; and orchestras, which, additionally to taking part in
symphonies, also can offer accompaniment to a classical music solo musician or to solo singers in
opera. With choral music, the accompaniment to a vocal solo is often provided by different
singers within the choir, who sing harmony components or countermelodies.
QUARTER 1 – LESSON 9

LESSON 8 – EVALUATION OF MUSIC OF THE CLASSICAL


PERIOD

Sonata Form – is a musical structure ABC consisting of 3 main sections: the most important form
that was developed during the classical era.

1st Movement: A Allegro- fast, brisk and lively movement approx. 120–156 bpm
2nd Movement: B Adagio or Andante - relatively slow (moderate) 108–120 bpm
3rd Movement: C Allegro or Vivace- lively and fast 156–176 bpm

Concerto - is completely musical or instrumental in nature played with one solo instrument that
is accompanied by small (ensemble) or large group of orchestra.
Symphony - an elaborate musical composition for full orchestra.

You also encountered names of famous composers of this period. They are:

1. Franz Joseph Haydn- is one of the most well-known composers of the Classical period. He was
called as the“ Father of Symphony“ because he was able to compose about 100 symphonies. Most
of his symphonies are the “Surprise Symphony“, “The Clock“, and “The Military“.
2. Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart- The most astounding genius in musical history and he composed
over 700 musical works. He composed also concertos, symphonies and operas such as “The
Marriage of Figaro“, “Don Giovanni“, and “The Magic Flute“. His other known works: Eine Kleine
Nachtmusik, Symphony No.40 in G major, and Sonata No.11 in A major K 311.
3. Ludwig Van Beethoven- is a gifted pianist and composer. His known symphonies are: Symphony
No.3 (Eroica), No.5, No.6 (Pastoral), No.9 (choral) that adds voices to the orchestra.
QUARTER 1 – LESSON 9

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