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"The free arts and the beautiful science of composition will not tolerate technical chains. The mind and soul must be free." —JOSEPH HAYDN

Key Points

  • The Classical era is considered the golden age of chamber music (ensemble music for two to about ten performers, with one player per part).
  • The string quartet (made up of 2 violins, viola, and cello) was the most important chamber music genre of the era; duos, trios, quintets, serenades, and divertimentos were also cultivated.
  • The form of a string quartet generally follows a standard four-movement structure of fast-slowmoderate dance-fast.
  • Haydn's string quartets, characterized by dense textures and the use of folk elements, are central to the literature for this ensemble.

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