The "sound" of the Classical era included what

Classical music has a lighter, clearer texture than Baroque music and is less complex. It is mainly homophonic, using a clear melody line over a subordinate chordal accompaniment, but counterpoint was by no means forgotten, especially later in the period.

Classical era: c. 1750–1820

Galant music: c. 1720–1780

Baroque era: c. 1580–1750

Romantic era: c. 1800–1910