Course Description

The course will trace the development of the symphony from its origins in concertos and opera overtures through the concert symphonies of Mozart and Haydn. We will look at the formal organization of symphonies, their relation to other genres, their social contexts, aesthetics, and performance practice. Students will gain some familiarity with 18th-century manuscripts and prints of symphonies. Composers covered will include Handel, Vivaldi, Scarlatti, Sammartini, J. C. Bach, J. Stamitz, Haydn, Dittersdorf, Mozart, and more. Like other proseminars, the course emphasizes reading, research and writing about music history.