![[Classical Music] A carefully curated selection of masterpieces born in the pivotal era that bridged the Baroque and Romantic periods](https://i.ytimg.com/vi_webp/NHjgSiTBddM/maxresdefault.webp)
[Classical Music] A carefully curated selection of masterpieces born in the pivotal era that bridged the Baroque and Romantic periods
The “Classical era,” in which composers of the Viennese Classical school—centered on Haydn, Beethoven, and Mozart—were active.
Composing in homophony, with melody supported by accompaniment, became mainstream, and musical forms and genres such as sonata form, the symphony, concerto, string quartet, and piano sonata were established.
It is an indispensable period when discussing the history of classical music.
In this article, we introduce particularly famous pieces and works considered historically important from among the music born in that Classical era.
Classical Music: A curated selection of masterpieces born in the crucial era connecting the Baroque and Romantic periods (1–10)
Trumpet Concerto in E-flat major, Hob. VIIe:1Franz Joseph Haydn
The masterpiece Trumpet Concerto in E-flat major, Hob.
VIIe:1, composed by the Classical-era master Haydn at the age of 64, was written for the trumpeter Anton Weidinger.
Showcasing the full appeal of the newly developed chromatic trumpet of the time, this three-movement work delights with its exquisite interplay between soloist and orchestra.
Beloved by trumpeters as a staple for concerts and competitions, it has also been featured as the theme music for a Hong Kong variety show and in a Netflix drama, making it a highly recommended piece not only for classical music fans but for a wide audience.
Sonata in D major for Two Pianos, K. 448 (K6. 375a), First MovementWolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, a leading composer of the Classical era, was a genius who, despite his short life, left behind more than 800 works.
The Sonata for Two Pianos in D major, K.448 (K6.375a), is a masterpiece composed for a pianist with whom he was acquainted in Vienna.
It is renowned as a work that embeds intricate structure and pure joy within a galant style.
The piece consists of three movements, each unfolding its own musical development.
In particular, the first movement—where the two pianos pass the melody back and forth—has become widely familiar after being featured in the television drama Nodame Cantabile, adapted from the manga.
Symphony No. 6 in F major, Op. 68 “Pastoral”Ludwig van Beethoven
The German master Ludwig van Beethoven is a composer who represents the transitional period from the Classical to the Romantic era.
His innovative works had a profound influence on later musicians.
Symphony No.
6 in F major, Op.
68 “Pastoral,” is a gem in which Beethoven expresses his love of nature through music.
It beautifully portrays his longing for pastoral landscapes and the joy and serenity found there.
Highlights include meticulous instrumentation, such as the depiction of birdsong and a storm.
It’s a recommended piece when you want to be soothed by the beauty of nature or relax and immerse yourself in music.
Symphony No. 5 in C minor, Op. 67 “Fate”Ludwig van Beethoven
When you hear Beethoven’s “Fate,” doesn’t everyone think of that famous opening “da-da-da-dum”? It’s said that the title “Fate” comes from Beethoven’s remark about the opening motif—reported by his pupil Schindler—that “Thus fate knocks at the door.” This motif is also called the “fate motif,” and it appears throughout the piece.
Try listening for it as you go.
The Oratorio ‘The Creation’Franz Joseph Haydn
Franz Joseph Haydn, a composer who epitomizes Classical music.
Born in Austria, Haydn made especially outstanding contributions in the fields of the symphony and the string quartet, earning him the titles “Father of the Symphony” and “Father of the String Quartet.” One of his representative works is the oratorio The Creation, first performed in 1798.
In this piece, a grand narrative based on the Book of Genesis in the Old Testament is expressed through beautiful music woven by soloists, chorus, and orchestra.
It portrays the process of creation, the love of Adam and Eve, and harmony with nature, leaving a profound impression on listeners.
Blending devout faith with Enlightenment ideals, this masterpiece conveys, through music, a timeless message about the beautiful relationship between humanity and nature.
Symphony No. 40 in G minor, K. 550Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Symphony No.
40 in G minor, K.
550 is one of the most popular among Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s many symphonies.
Despite the financial instability and personal difficulties he faced at the time, Mozart’s music was, artistically speaking, entering a period of true maturity.
This work—striking for its poignant melody introduced by the violas and its firmly constructed sonata form—is profound yet refined.
Its richly expressive themes, as if interweaving life and death, light and darkness, speak powerfully to the listener’s heart.
It is an imperishable masterpiece that both newcomers to classical music and seasoned listeners should hear at least once.
Für EliseLudwig van Beethoven
Ludwig van Beethoven is one of the most important composers in the history of classical music, known both as the culmination of the Classical era and a pioneer of the Romantic era.
His works are characterized by complexity, innovation, and emotional depth, reflecting the political and cultural upheavals of his time.
Für Elise, believed to have been composed around 1810, is one of Beethoven’s most popular pieces.
Although there are various theories about to whom it was dedicated, its simple and catchy melody continues to be loved by many.
It is a masterpiece recommended for a wide range of listeners, from classical music beginners to seasoned enthusiasts.