The Classical period, between the Baroque and Romantic periods, was short, running from around 1750-1830. It was the golden age of instrumental music, in particular thanks to the invention of the piano. Classical composers were focused on harmony, elegance, rigour and lightness. New musical groups were formed during this period: a good example is the string quartet, mainly thanks to Joseph Haydn. The polyphony of the Baroque period gave way to homophony: ensembles became more important and provided accompaniment to simpler melodies. The size of the orchestra grew and contributed to the development of the symphony (eventually becoming a symphony orchestra in a later period).

The most renowned composer of the classical period was Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, a child prodigy who composed more than 600 pieces despite his short lifetime. 

Joseph Haydn is another important figure of the classical period.