Module 4 – Music of the Classical Period
Unit Summary
(20 points)

1. Name two important visual artists (not musicians) from the Classical Period. (1 point)
Jean-Honoré Fragonard
Jacques-Louis David
2. Name two important writers of literature (not musicians) from the Classical Period. ( 1 point)
Voltaire
Denis Diderot
Jane Austen
3. Discuss the political events and sociological factors that made the Classical Period such a time of violent upheaval. (1 point)
The years 1750 to 1820 were characterized by the Seven Years’ War, the American and French Revolutions, and the Napoleonic Wars. These political events coupled with the drastic social change proven by the shift of power from the aristocracy and church to the middle class,
Fast movement: The fourth movement, either in sonata or sonata-rondo form, is fast, lively, and brilliant, but somewhat lighter in mood than the opening movement. It can also be more triumphant and heroic in character and sometimes meant as the climax of the whole symphony.
7. Describe the intellectual climate of the “age of enlightenment.” (1 point)
The “age of enlightenment” intellectuals believed in progress, holding that reason, not custom or tradition was the best guide for human conduct. Their attacks on the privileges of the aristocracy and clergy reflected the outlook of the middle class, which was struggling for its rights.
8. Discuss in detail several meanings attached to the term classical. (1 point)
The term classical may refer to Greek or Roman Antiquity, or it may be used for any supreme accomplishment of lasting appeal. It can also mean any type of music that isn’t jazz, rock, folk, or mainstream music. Music historians use the term classical from art history.
9. Describe the characteristic formal plans and content usually found in a classical symphony. (1 point)
A typical sequence is (1) a vigorous, dramatic fast movement; (2) a lyrical slow movement; (3) a dancelike movement (minuet or scherzo); and (4) a brilliant or heroic fast movement. The opening movement is usually in sonata form and stresses an exciting development of short motives. The second movement, not usually