Classical period
Musical epoch between 1750 and 1820.
What it means
Classical period (German Klassik) designates the musical epoch roughly between 1750 and 1820. The dates are rough guides: the transition out of the Baroque took place over several decades and via intermediate stages that are grouped under names such as galant style and Empfindsamkeit, and just as fluidly the epoch passed into the Romantic period. The term itself is a later ascription and carries a value judgment that is to be viewed critically.
Musical use
Characteristic is the precedence of melody with accompaniment over continuous polyphony, a clear periodic articulation into antecedent and consequent, a functionally ordered harmony, and the abandonment of figured bass. Formally, sonata form arises with its relation of theme areas, development, and recapitulation; on this the symphony, sonata, concerto, and string quartet are built. Dynamics become a flowing parameter with gradual swelling and diminishing, which is connected with the development of the fortepiano and orchestral practice. Character contrasts within a movement replace the unified affect of the Baroque.
The Viennese Classical period with Haydn, Mozart, and Beethoven counts as the core of the epoch. Sonata form, symphony, and string quartet became basic forms here.
Performance practice
Work out the periodic articulation: where does an antecedent end, where does the consequent answer, where is a phrase extended. Keep the articulation exact, since it plays the main role for the character in this music. Use dynamics as a course and not only as a level. Note repeat signs and decide deliberately. For performances it is worthwhile to consider the size of the scoring, because the orchestras of this time were smaller than today's.
Bear in mind that the term for the epoch is a subsequent ascription with an evaluative colouring: it sums up a diverse development in which numerous composers took part. Use it as an aid to order and not as a judgment. Work out the periodic articulation and keep the articulation exact, because it carries the character.
Check whether the edition has added articulation marks, because they directly determine the character of the movements.