The Classical period refers to the years 1730 and 1820, and although there are several different styles within Classical music, it’s safe to say that this genre has made an impact on not only the music industry, but also on our lives in general. Here are the 3 best Classical music composers from the period that are still heard and loved today:

Ludwig van Beethoven
This German composer and pianist is a crucial figure in the transition between the Classical and Romantic eras, and is still one of the most famous and influential of all composers. Known as the “inventor” of Romantic music, his best-known compositions include the 9th Symphony, the 5th Piano Concerto, the Violin Concerto, the Late Quartets, his great Mass the Missa Solemnis, and Fidelio the opera. By his late 20s, Beethoven’s hearing began to deteriorate, and he spent the last 25 years or so of his life almost completely deaf, yet this did not affect his success.

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Already having been competent on keyboard and violin, Mozart started composing from the age of 5 and composed over 600 works throughout his lifetime. He is among the most popular of classical composers, and had a profound influence on subsequent Western art music. He wrote his music in full orchestral scores, with no corrections whatsoever; his first drafts were his final drafts. While it is difficult to list all of his greatest works, some of his best include Eine Kleine Nachtmusik, Requiem Mass (which was completed by his pupil Sussmayer), and Ah, vous dirais-je, Maman, which is commonly known as Twinkle Twinkle Little Star.

Johann Sebastian Bach
While Bach didn’t invent any new styles or forms of music, he perfected every single one that existed instead. He enriched them through his skills in counterpoint, harmonic, and motivic organisation, as well as adapting rhythms, forms, and textures from abroad; specifically Italy and France. His abilities were highly respected during his lifetime, and although he was not widely recognised until the first half of the 19th century, he is now regarded as one of the greatest Classical music composers of all time.

If you’re interested in starting or sending your child for music lessons in Guernsey, get in touch with the School of Popular Music. We offer classes and individual tutoring for all ages and all levels in a variety of different instruments.

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