What characteristic is associated with the Classical period?

The characteristic associated with the Classical period is the use of Alberti bass. This texture is a hallmark of Classical music, where the left hand in piano or other keyboard works often plays a broken chord pattern rather than providing a solid bass line. The Alberti bass pattern typically alternates between the lowest note of a chord and the upper notes, creating a flowing and lighter texture that supports the melodic line above.

During the Classical period, composers such as Haydn, Mozart, and later Beethoven employed this technique to enhance the clarity and balance of their music. This contrasts with the Baroque period's more complex counterpoint, where intricate intertwining melodies were often the focus. In the Classical style, the emphasis shifted towards simplicity and melody, making the Alberti bass not just a technical characteristic but also a reflection of the aesthetic values of the time.

While some Classical compositions do display emotional depth and rhythmic complexity, these aspects are not as defining of the period as the use of Alberti bass.