Classical Period:

The Classical period of music included the years 1750 - 1825. 

Composers:  Hayden, Mozart, Beethoven, Schubert

Melody:     Symmetrical melody in balanced in phrases and cadences; tuneful, diatonic, with narrow leaps.

Harmony:  Diatonic harmony favored

Texture:  Homophonic texture; chordal-vertical dimension

Form:  Ternary form becomes important, sonata-allegro form developed.

Dynamics:  Continuously changing dynamics through crescendo and decrescendo.

Performing forces:  Orchestra standardized into four choirs; introduction of clarinet, trombone; rise of piano to prominence.