[Listening extract audio not available in printed QP] Compare the Classical orchestra with the Baroque orchestra. Refer to instrumentation, the role of the ...

Comparing the Classical orchestra with the Baroque orchestra across four areas: [5]

1. Instrumentation: The Classical orchestra includes clarinets as standard woodwind instruments, which were not available in the Baroque period. The woodwind section became standardised in pairs (two flutes, two oboes, two clarinets, two bassoons), giving the orchestra a wider palette of tone colours. [1]
2. Role of the keyboard: The Baroque orchestra uses a basso continuo (typically harpsichord or organ with a bass instrument such as cello or bassoon) to provide continuous harmonic support from figured bass notation. In the Classical orchestra, the continuo is absent; all parts are fully written out by the composer, and the keyboard is no longer needed as a continual harmonic filler. [1]
3. Dynamics: The Classical orchestra uses a wider range of dynamics, including gradual crescendo and diminuendo, allowing smooth transitions between volume levels. Baroque music relies more on terraced dynamics, where volume shifts abruptly between loud and soft without gradual transitions. [1]
4. Ensemble size: The Classical orchestra is larger than the Baroque orchestra. The string section is expanded and takes the primary melodic role, rather than sharing it with the continuo group. [1]
5. Notation: Classical composers wrote out all orchestral parts in full rather than using figured bass notation, giving the composer greater control over every detail of the texture and ensuring a consistent performance. [1]