Changing Characteristics of Music

During the Classical Period, the main characteristics of instrumental music were changed. Music became lighter and more complex. Melodies and harmonies became more complicated, with more separate parts happening all at once.

The instrumetation that was popular also changed. Solos, trios, quartets, and quintets became popular, rather than only the large orchestras that had previously been the rule.

Just as poetry has many forms, such as the sonnet, music also has many forms. During the Classical Period, the sonata form was completely reworked. A new four movement symphony form was also introduced.