First Viennese School vs. Second Viennese School

Attribute	First Viennese School	Second Viennese School
Time Period	18th century	20th century
Composers	Haydn, Mozart, Beethoven	Schoenberg, Berg, Webern
Style	Classical	Modern
Form	Sonata form, symphony, string quartet	Atonality, serialism, twelve-tone technique

Background

The First Viennese School refers to the era of classical music in Vienna during the 18th century, with composers such as Haydn, Mozart, and Beethoven being prominent figures. This period is known for its development of the symphony, sonata, and string quartet forms. On the other hand, the Second Viennese School emerged in the early 20th century and was characterized by composers such as Schoenberg, Berg, and Webern, who were pioneers of atonal and twelve-tone music.

Style and Form

The First Viennese School composers were known for their adherence to classical forms such as sonata-allegro, minuet and trio, and rondo. They focused on clear structures, balanced phrases, and melodic development within these forms. In contrast, the Second Viennese School composers rejected traditional tonality and embraced dissonance and chromaticism. They experimented with new forms and techniques, such as serialism and sprechstimme, to push the boundaries of music.

Harmony and Texture

In terms of harmony, the First Viennese School composers used functional tonality, with clear harmonic progressions and resolutions. They often employed diatonic scales and chords to create a sense of stability and resolution in their music. On the other hand, the Second Viennese School composers abandoned tonality altogether and explored atonal and twelve-tone systems. Their music featured dissonant harmonies and unconventional chord progressions, leading to a more complex and ambiguous harmonic language.

Orchestration and Instrumentation

The orchestration in the First Viennese School was typically traditional, with a focus on the classical orchestra consisting of strings, woodwinds, brass, and percussion. Composers like Haydn and Mozart were masters of orchestration, using the instruments to create a rich and colorful sound palette. In contrast, the Second Viennese School composers experimented with new instrumental combinations and techniques. They often used smaller ensembles and unconventional instruments to achieve unique timbres and textures in their compositions.

Expression and Emotion

While the First Viennese School composers valued clarity, balance, and formal structure in their music, they also expressed a wide range of emotions through their compositions. From the joyful exuberance of Mozart's symphonies to the profound depth of Beethoven's late string quartets, these composers were able to convey complex emotions through their music. The Second Viennese School composers, on the other hand, focused more on intellectual and abstract concepts in their music. They sought to challenge traditional notions of emotion and expression, often creating music that was more cerebral and thought-provoking.

Legacy and Influence

The First Viennese School composers, particularly Haydn, Mozart, and Beethoven, have had a lasting impact on the development of Western classical music. Their works are considered masterpieces of the classical era and continue to be performed and studied extensively today. The Second Viennese School composers, while initially met with resistance and controversy, have also left a significant mark on the music world. Their innovations in atonality, serialism, and twelve-tone technique have influenced generations of composers and expanded the possibilities of contemporary music.