when was the classical period
1750-1820
who were the key composers
mozart
haydn
beethoven
what are 4 characteristics
homophonic
fewer ornaments
subtle dynamics
crescendos and diminuendos
what was an important instrument introduced
piano- more popular than harpsichord because it could play a variety of tones
describe the orchestra
bigger
new instruments introduced
which groups were in the orchestras
woodwind- oboe, bassoons, clarinets
brass- trumpet, french horns
percussion- bass drums, snare drums, triangles, cymbals
what was the most important group in orchestras
strings
violins played most melodies
2 characteristics of the music
clear melodies with simple structures
major and minor keys