Of the six historical periods of Western Art music, I have chosen the Classical period. The Classical period takes place from 1730-1820, which was a time for great change across the world. America spent close to two decades revolting against the British. Soon after, the French spent approximately a decade revolting against the upper classes. Not only was the social status of the world changing, but so was the music of the world. The Classical period was popular among several nations, and it was derived of mostly German and Italian tastes. Symphony and string quartet became much more common. Concerts also became more public instead of private due to a growing middle class.
A famous composer from this period is Ludwig Van Beethoven. One of his most famous pieces in my opinion is symphony number 5. The very beginning contains a villainous-like sound, as if someone or something evil is approaching at a fast rate. Another great piece made by him is piano sontana number 14. This composition seems to be two entirely different pieces brought together. The first part has a dark depressing tone to it. The second part however seems to be much more lively and joyful. From what I already knew about his music, it tended to be fast and exciting. This is why it surprised me to discover that the first 5 minutes or so of sontana number 14 is much slower than I expected.
I also enjoyed how Classical music represented a style of music that has changed from the previous styles of music of past periods. I knew that the Classical Period was the period that made more instrumental styles more common, but this post helped me realize that the potential reason behind the change was the changing state of both Europe and the world, something which I had not considered before. I think Beethoven is a good representation of the changing style of the Classical Period.
I like the way you describe the sound of Beethoven’s pieces. Using words like “villainous” and “dark” really emphasize the mood the music has and helps visualize what kind of story could be being told through the composing of music. The reach and diversity Classical music had over Europe is interesting to me too, so many countries had their own interpretations of Classical which generated a diversity between sounds from different countries.
I also really enjoyed the classical period because I feel like the music during this time was very relaxing and peaceful. I felt that it was able to tell a story by the different rhythms and sounds it created. I also agree that this was a different style of music compared to the past periods of music. I liked how you described the piece by Beethoven and gave me a different look on the song.