Mozart: 1st Movement from Symphony No.40 in G minor
General
Written in 1788
From the Classical Period (1750-1830)
Structure
1) Exposition
1st Subject in Gminor
Bridge- modulation
2nd Subject in G minor
Codetta in Bb Major
2) Development
Develops 1st Subject- through related keys
3) Recapitulation
1st Subject in G minor
Bridge- no modulation
2nd Subject in G minor
Coda- perfect Cadence
Instrumentation
Strings
Violins
Violas
Cellos
Double basses
Woodwind
Flute
Oboes (2)
Clarinets (2)
Bassoons (2)
Brass
Horn in G
Horn in Bb major
The instrumentation is
slightly different to a
standard classical orchestra
as it contains only one flute
rather than two. It also does
not contain the usual two
trumpets or timpani.
It is a symphony that is in sonata form.
Sonata Form means that has three sections. An
exposition, a development and a recapitulation.
Features of Classical Music
Regular eight bar phrasing. 4
is asking the question and the
next four answer it.
Melody dominated texture
Symmetry and balance within
the structure
Functional harmony- only used
for structure.
Orchestras became standard and the
harpsichord was no longer used.
Contrast in key and melodies and great dynamic contrast.