Study Guides

Unit Summary

This unit introduces pupils to the Western Classical Tradition. It explores chamber, orchestral and vocal ensembles, musical features and key composers from the Baroque, Classical and Romantic periods, and takes a broad look at tonality and harmony across these periods.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to describe key musical features of the three key periods within the Western Classical Tradition.

Key Notes

• The Western Classical Tradition refers to European art music since the Medieval period.
• The three key eras are the Baroque (1600-1750), Classical (1750-1820) and Romantic (1820-1910) periods.
• The Baroque period used a small orchestra with harpsichord and ornamented melodies. Bach was a key composer.
• Classical composers (e.g. Mozart) began to use the piano and most music had a clear melody and accompaniment.
• In the Romantic period music became much more complex, dramatic and emotive. Tchaikovsky was a famous composer.

Vocabulary To Learn

• Western Classical Tradition: formal, notated European art music from the Medieval period to the 21st century
• Baroque: a period of music history between 1600 and 1750
• Classical: a period of music history between 1750 and 1820
• Romantic: a period of music history between 1820 and 1910

Common Mistakes To Avoid

• Music from the Romantic period is all about love and romance.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

More Lessons In This Unit

• Harmony and tonality in Western classical music Study Guide
• Music for small ensembles Study Guide
• The orchestra Study Guide
• The voice in Western classical music Study Guide