How did classical composers write music?

Question

How did classical composers such as Mozart and Beethoven write music for instruments they didn't play, such as the timpani or trumpet? Is it all music theory or were they just so genius that they could intuitively compose for any instrument?

Answer 1

This is called "orchestration," which is actually separate from theory! Orchestration is the art of writing well for all instruments and knowing what instruments can and cannot do. You do not need to be a genius to know it. In fact, you can learn most of it from books! The composers you are talking about also had a lot of experience and feedback from their performers, which is another thing that helps a lot.

If you would like to learn more I would suggest you check out the book "The Art of Orchestration" by Samuel Adler.

Answer 2

Additionally, most composers are experienced musicians on one or more instruments, and they are very experienced at listening to how instruments and instrumental combinations sound at concerts and in recordings. They study the scores of great composers, and they work with great musicians to discover what unique sounds can be made on their instruments. It's part of a lifelong process of discovery and learning.

Answer 3

Hi!

Most composers study music at a high level before attempting composition. It is not possible to compose for an instrument without knowing anything about it, but what most professional-level musicians know about instruments (even those that are not their own) is the range (how high or low it can play). From there, composers (or whoever is going to conduct the premiere of the piece) generally work with musicians at rehearsals to fix anything that is "unplayable". Although I wasn't there to see it happen, I have been part of this process with contemporary composers, and they generally just have a laugh about it and move on. Each instrument has quirks that really only masters of the instrument are aware of.

However, Mozart and Beethoven most certainly were geniuses, and had a certain level of intuition when it came to composing for different instruments.

Hope this helps!