The Classical musical period
Hitherto, the dominant keyboard instrument was the quill-plucked harpsichord, which lacked any contrast in loud and soft volume. Conversely, the piano strings are struck with hammers, which allow the performer to alter the volume of the music, thereby creating more dynamic interest. The instrument was originally named the fortepiano, literally meaning "loud soft".
- Sonata
- Trio
- String quartet
- Symphony
- Concerto
Vocal music was also emphasized in settings such as:
- Songs for voice and piano
- Choir
- Opera
Composers of the Classical musical period
Austria

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
(1756-1791)Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart imitated his older sister from a young age by amusing himself at the clavier (a predecessor of the piano), when his father noted the child's prodigious ability he began teaching Mozart ...

Joseph Hadyn
(1732-1809)Joseph Hadyn is often regarded as the "Father of the Symphony" due to his contributions to the development of European classical music ...
Italy

Matteo Carcassi
(1792-1853)The Italian virtuoso guitarist, Matteo Carcassi, hailed from Florence, where he had originally learnt piano, but additionally was taught to play the guitar ...

Mauro Giuliani
(1781-1829)Mauro Giuliani was an Italian guitar virtuoso mostly active in the 19th century, he also was an accomplished cellist and singer ...
Spain

Fernando Sor
(1778-1839)The Spanish classical guitarist and composer, Fernando Sor, was born in Barcelona to a successful family and his ancestors were made of a long line of career soldiers ...

Dionisio Aguado
(1784-1849)Dionisio Aguado was born in Madrid, Spain ...