common practice period

The "common practice period" in music refers to the era from roughly the mid-17th century to the late 19th century. This period saw the development of major and minor scales as the primary tonal system, replacing older modal structures. Harmony became a central generative force in composition, with a focus on functional harmony.12

Key developments include the evolution of musical forms like the symphony and sonata, and the rise of the performer as a central figure. Instrumental music flourished, and the orchestra grew in size and complexity. Composers like Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, and Brahms are hallmarks of this era, each contributing significantly to the development of musical language and form. The period laid the groundwork for much of Western classical music as we know it today.32