The 18th century was a time of great change in Western music. It was a period of transition from the Baroque era to the Classical era. During this time, composers such as Bach, Handel, and Vivaldi were still popular, but new composers like Haydn, Mozart, and Beethoven emerged. The Classical era was characterized by a focus on simplicity, clarity, and balance in music. Composers used new forms such as the sonata, symphony, and concerto to showcase their skills. The piano became a popular instrument, and opera continued to be a popular form of entertainment. The 18th century was also a time of great innovation in music theory, with new ideas about harmony and tonality emerging. Overall, the 18th century was a time of great creativity and change in Western music.