Classical Music Forms: Sonatas, Symphonies, and Operas

Sonatas

• Written for one instrument, though some are composed for two instruments.
• Usually divided into three or four sections (movements), with breaks between them.
• At least one of the movements is in sonata form, usually the first and sometimes the last.

Symphonies

• Played by a full orchestra.
• Features the same structure as sonatas.
• More often have four movements rather than three; they can also have more than four.
• Some symphonies include a choir as well as the orchestra.
• Notable composers: Haydn, Mozart, Beethoven, Berlioz, Brahms, and Mahler.

Concertos

• Written for a solo instrument and an orchestra.
• The soloist has most of the tune and gets to really show off how brilliant they are.
• The orchestra has the tune some of the time too; their part is more than just an accompaniment.
• Usually consists of three movements: quick, slow, and quick.

Opera

• These are plays set to music.
• Main characters are played by solo singers.
• Main characters are supported by a chorus and an orchestra.
• The story is acted out, usually with lavish sets, costumes, and special effects.
• In some operas, every single word is sung; in others, there is a bit of talking.
• Some operas have really serious, tragic themes, while others are more light-hearted and comic.
• The words of an opera are called the "libretto", often written by a "librettist".

Major Types of Opera

Types of Singing in Opera

Aria

• A solo vocal piece backed by the orchestra.
• Used to explore the emotions of the main characters.
• Features memorable, exciting tunes that allow performers to show their vocal tone and agility.

Recitative

• A half-spoken, half-singing style used for some conversations.
• Recitativo secco: Recitative that is unaccompanied.
• Recitativo stromentato (or accompagnato): Accompanied recitative, used to increase dramatic tension.

Chorus

A section where the whole chorus sings together.

Oratorio

• The religious version of an opera.
• Oratorios feature arias, recitatives, and choruses.
• They focus on a religious theme.
• Based on traditional stories, sometimes from the Bible.
• Unlike operas, these are not acted out.
• Written mainly for concert or church performance.
• Notable composers: Handel, Haydn, Berlioz, Elgar, and Walton.