Definition & Meaning of "Galant music"

What is "Galant music"?

Galant music is a style of classical music that was popular in the early to mid-18th century. It is characterized by its light, elegant, and often straightforward melodies, with a clear and balanced structure. This style emphasizes simplicity and clarity, focusing on pleasing and accessible tunes rather than complex layers of sound. Galant music often features graceful ornamentation and a gentle, smooth texture, where the melody stands out clearly against a supportive accompaniment. Composers like Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach and Giovanni Battista Sammartini are known for their contributions to this style, which served as a precursor to the more elaborate Classical style that followed.