Instruments are really important when comparing Baroque music to Classical music. Each style uses different instruments and has its own special sound.

Differences in Instruments

1. Baroque Era (1600-1750)

   • Orchestra Setup: A typical Baroque orchestra had string instruments like violins, violas, cellos, and double basses. It also included a few woodwind instruments like flutes and oboes, along with a continuo section, which had a cello and keyboard.
   • Main Instrument: The harpsichord was very popular during this time. It helped with chords and could also play solo parts.
   • Ornamentation: Musicians often added fancy touches and decorations to their playing.

2. Classical Era (1750-1820)

   • Orchestra Setup: The Classical orchestra grew larger. It included more woodwinds, like clarinets and bassoons, plus brass instruments like horns and trumpets, and percussion instruments like timpani.
   • Main Instrument: The fortepiano started to take the place of the harpsichord. It allowed musicians to play softer and louder, adding more feelings to the music.
   • Style: Classical music focused on being clear and balanced. It often used a type of structure called sonata form, which helped the music develop in a logical way.

Style Differences

• Baroque Style:

  • Counterpoint: This style uses complex melodies that mix together.
  • Rhythm: Repeated patterns are common in Baroque music.

• Classical Style:

  • Melody: Melodies are simpler and easier to sing.
  • Harmony: There is more focus on using chords as background, which is called homophony.

Quick Facts

• In Baroque music, over 70% of the pieces included a lot of instrumental decorations.
• In Classical music, about 65% of the pieces had a clear main theme in their first parts. This shows that they valued clarity over complexity.