Historical Dictionary of Music of the Classical Period

If there is one period in music history that lies in the background of our modern concept of classical music and yet is difficult to grasp in its entirety, it is the Classical Period. The research is mammoth, and there is an awareness that it may probably be the first modern period of today's music, and still there are aspects that seem to defy precise detail. The concepts that drove the 19th century all appear during the very short timespan of its existence, the foundations for the technological marvels of later eras were laid, new forms of government appeared as a fundamental sea change occurred from the earlier hierarchy based upon feudal fealty to some sort of more egalitarian system, and in the arts there was an emerging awareness of people, their emotions and foibles, that drove substantial changes in how culture was practiced and viewed. There can be no doubt that this was perhaps one of the most fruitful compositional periods in history, and in comparison with other times, it would seem that there was a market for music of all sorts in virtually every place.The Historical Dictionary of Music of the Classical Period covers the music and of the Classical Period, defined by the author as 1728-1800, with both forerunners and successors briefly described. This is done through a chronology, an introductory essay, and an extensive bibliography. The dictionary section has over 1,000 cross-referenced entries on composers, genres, styles, significant patrons or musicians, musical instruments, and terms demonstrating the global reach of the music of this era. This book is an excellent resource for classical music reviewers and media throughout the world, in addition to providing directions for research among graduate students in musicology and lexicographers.