The development of the orchestra from baroque to 20 th Century

The evolution of the classical orchestra from 1750 to 1950 reflects significant changes in musical composition and instrumentation. Beginning with small ensembles in the Baroque period, orchestras expanded dramatically during the Romantic era, accommodating up to 120 players. This growth allowed for richer, more complex works by composers like Tchaikovsky and Brahms. The Impressionistic period introduced new influences, with composers such as Debussy and Ravel drawing inspiration from visual arts. The Modern era further diversified orchestral music, incorporating elements from jazz and folk traditions, exemplified by Stravinsky and Gershwin. This assignment provides a concise overview of these developments, emphasizing the orchestra’s role in shaping classical music history.