1. Classical Period Cultural Trends
Called the Age of Enlightenment or Age of Reason
Scientific Method was developed during the Classical Period
Emphasis on Rational Thought to solve problems
Emphasis on Balance, Structure, Order as an ideal approach to life
American Revolution and French Revolution occurred during this time:
Gave people the power to govern themselves. People believed they could govern
themselves by making rational decisions. They did not need a King to make all the
decisions for them.
Historical Figures: John Locke (philosopher), Benjamin Franklin (scientist and founding father), Thomas Jefferson (inventor, architect, and founding father), George Washington (first President).
Mozart Symphonies, Mackerras, CD#2

2. Classical Period Artworks
Paintings can look “posed,” like a snapshot
Balance, symmetry, emotional calmness
Classical (ancient Greek and Roman) themes

3. More Classical Period Art
Portraits containing realistic detail became more popular:

4. Classical Period Arcitecture
Symmetrical placement of columns, windows, and doors reflect the classical ideals of balance, order, structure.

5. Classical Period Musical Trends
Emphasis on Balance, Proportion, Structure, and Form
Develop of Formal Structures help composers to organize longer pieces of music.
Rondo Form
Sonata Form
Theme and Variations
SonataHandout.pdf
The Symphony - Forms.mht
Symphony and Concerto (larger multi-movement forms) become standard:
Symphony: Fast/ Slow/ Minuet (Waltz-like)/ Fast Concerto: Fast/ Slow/ Fast
Emotional restraint becomes important in music as well as visual art
Composers: Boccherini, Haydn, Hummel, Gluck, Mozart, Beethoven (early works)
YouTube - Joseph Haydn Piano Trio in G Major.mht
YouTube - Mozart's Symphony no st movement.mht
YouTube - Beethoven Symphony No_ 1 - Finale.mht