Implications of the Classical Symphony

The classical era brought about a plethora of changes which drove western music into a brand new direction. Whereas the Renaissance period brought about enlightenment and the breaking away of traditional religious music, and the Baroque period exploding the provisions of artistic expression, the Classical period came back to square one and established systemized order. Although we no longer have the same verbosity of the Baroque era, the Classical period combined the elements of order and grace to achieve a more widespread method of entertainment and culture. Among these elements is the classical symphony, which was established by Joseph Haydn. Though many other genres existed at the time, it was the symphony that stood out and clearly represented the substance of the Classical period. The classical period can be best described as an evolutionary offshoot of the Baroque era. Whereas the Baroque era focused on the exaggeration of melodic expression, the Classical period boasted clearer texture and much greater simplicity. One can note this difference when we compare the textures of both eras. Baroque music sported imitative polyphony, with a plethora of melodies playing altogether simultaneously in a convolution of music (Axtel 20). However, the Classical period provides a much concise sound with homophony. This allowed composers to create a single, all powerful theme that is supported by various sounds that do compliment this theme. Although some may think that this “background” music detracts from the content of a musical piece, it instead supports it and brings about a consistent contrast which amplifies the main theme of the musical piece. Homophony allowed for easy listening for the audience to enjoy, which at the same time brought about a pleasing attitude during performances. Among other things, Classical music is very forgiving when it comes to rhythm. Rhythm in the Baroque era could be best described as unvarying. Although composers may very well add

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