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1. What is a symphony?
The Oxford English Dictionarys definition of a symphony is an
elaborate musical composition for full orchestra, typically in
four movements.
Many are tonal with the first movement in sonata form.
Many symphonies, including those of Mozart and Beethoven,
however, do not conform to this model.
2. Origins of the word
The word symphony is derived from the Greek, meaning
sounding together or harmonious.
3. 17th Century (Baroque)
For most of the Baroque period, the terms symphony and
sinfonia were used for a range of different compositions,
including instrumental pieces used in operas, sonatas and
concertos. They were usually part of a larger work.
There were two general types of overture: the Italian opera
sinfonia, exemplified by the works of Alessandro Scarlatti;
and the French Overture, exemplified by the works of JeanBaptiste Lully.
Both were structured in three movements; however, the structure
of an Italian sinfonia was fast-slow-fast, while that of a
French Overture was slow-fast-slow.
An overture was composed for a small orchestra (no more than
fifteen players), was relatively easy to play, and was short
in duration (typically six or seven minutes).
6. Binary Form
Many early symphonies were written in binary form.
A typical work in symphonic binary form begins with an A section
with themes in both the tonic and dominant (this section
being called the exposition), a B section which moves
through a variety of keys before settling upon the dominant
again (the development), and a return of A section which
does not modulate in its second appearance (the
recapitulation).
Although binary form uses three distinct sections to the form,
they are not of equal length. The first A section is much
longer than the B, to accomodate the return to A.
7. Sonata Principle
This is considered the most important principle form of formal
design in the Classical period
It is based on moving away from and back to the principal key
The key scheme is clearly articulated and dramatised by contrast
of material.
Form is used to create drama by creating a conflict between