MI: LIBRARY: HISTORY: CLASSICAL PERIOD

The classical period is considered to be the period of time from 1750 to 1820. During this time, much of the ornate styles of the baroque era were dropped, and a simpler style was adopted. The monarchs and church were also replaced by the new aristocracies. These aristocracies also demanded different music, the music they demanded was more elegant and included minuets and gavottes. 

During the classical period, Vienna became the musical core of Europe. It is for the reason that many works from the classical period are called works of the “Viennese style.” Artists from all over came to Vienna and the surrounding areas to study, work, and perform. These artists would set some of the standards of music for many years after.

Gluck brought a reform to the Baroque opera. Stamitz developed the idea of an orchestra symphony. Lastly, the three brilliant composers from the Viennese school, Mozart, Beethoven, and Haydn, developed some of the greatest musical works of all time. As well, Schubert and others began the transition into the next era, the Romantic era.