Classical Era: Influential Events, Institutions, and People

Vienna (capital of Austria) was the musical center in Europe. As a result, music from this era is often called the Viennese style. Vienna was the center for musical training, and composers traveled far to study there. As a result, the composers created and developed the standard musical forms that are still prevalent today. The composers of the Viennese school include Franz Joseph Haydn, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, and Ludwig van Beethoven. They helped the growth and development of the orchestra and the orchestral symphony. Sonatas and string quartets were other new creations from this school.

The Classical era was short, yet full of world changes. The American Revolution, French Revolution, and Napoleon’s wars changed society. This was also the first era where the public was more capable of participating in leisure activities. This affected the patronage system (house musicians in the courts) and public concerts took form.

Classical music tended to be simple and unemotional. Titles of music were non-descript such as "Symphony No. 7" and were written for the sake of music rather than for any specific event. They were performed in concert or recital halls.

In the new world, America, the American Revolution took place from 1775-1776. The above photo depicts an American home built during this era. American music during this era was performed on instruments such as the ones heard in the listening sample below.

Listen to the example below:

American music wasn’t supported by the monarchies of Europe. As a result, the means to produce music was limited in this time. Pianos were becoming popular, but the most frequently used instrument was the violin—more often referred to as the fiddle.

American music at this time consisted of theater music (Beggar’s Opera – used familiar folk tunes with new words along with spoken dialogue), dance music, church music, military music, and African-American spirituals.