A symphony, as it is generally defined today, is a large-scale composition for orchestra, usually in three or four movements. However, this definition only scratches the surface of what is a great musical tradition. The origins of the symphony can be traced back to the Baroque sinfonia. During the Baroque period, the sinfonia was used as an orchestral overture to an opera, oratorio, or cantata. It usually consisted of three or four contrasting sections or movements, often using popular dance forms. Towards the end of the Baroque period, operatic sinfonias began to be performed in the concert hall, and the sinfonia gradually became a stand-alone orchestral composition. However, it wasn't until the development of sonata form that composers really began to take notice of this new genre. Above: C.P.E. Bach Above: J.C. Bach Arguably the most important structure in classical music, sonata form provided the framework for composers who wanted to express ideas on a larger scale than was possible using the old Baroque binary and ternary forms. The development and refinement of sonata form is largely due to the efforts of early Classical composers, particularly Carl Philip Emmanuel and Johann Christian Bach (sons of the great Johann Sebastian), Stamitz, and Sammartini, who, through their symphonies and sinfonias, transformed what was then an unrefined concept into a viable proposition for the new generation of composers. All of the great Romantic and 20th Century symphonists owe a great deal to these composers, whose basic designs for the symphony are still in use today. Continue the Quick Tour Previous Page