A brief history of Musick

(Featuring Bach himself)

Contents

Baroque period

The era of Baroque music (1600-1750) began when the first operas were written and when contrapuntal music became prevalent. Composers from the Baroque era include Bach, Handel and Telemann. Note that the Bach family has many members.

Classical period

The death of Bach signifies the start of the classical period. The music of the Classical period (1750-1800) is characterized by homophonic texture, often featuring a prominent melody with accompaniment. Haydn and Mozart are among the central figures of the Classical period.

Romantic era

In 1800, the Romantic era (1800-1890s) in music developed, with Beethoven and Schubert as transitional composers who introduced a more dramatic, expressive style. Bach was not present.