How do classical composers write music?

Question

I am starting to learn about music theory and today it hit me how do classical composers such as Mozart and Beethoven are able to write music for instruments they don't play, such as (for example purpose) timpani or trumpet.Is it all music theory or just that they where such genius they could intuitive compose for any instrument?

Answer 1

Yes! They had to study a subject called "orchestration." Texts on that were not written until the Romantic period. Though many did just play the instruments or have family/ friends that they could ask. They did get to know the capabilities through listening to the instrument play and timbres or tone color and effects got more and more interesting as the instruments and writing capabilities developed. Operatic and vocal music was the most dramatic and evocative.

Answer 2

Hello! Composers have used various methods for writing music throughout music history. While composers such as Mozart and Beethoven may have been musical geniuses, they still extensively studied music and were well trained in a variety of areas. The field of learning how to write for various instruments is typically referred to as orchestration, and this is something that is still taught to music students today. Many composers also studied other areas relating to composition (such as counterpoint, harmony, part-writing, aural skills, etc.) and these subjects are also taught to an extent in modern music theory courses. Hopefully this answers your question!