Why do so many pieces of classical music have only a technical name (Sonata #5, Concerto 2 in A minor, symphony #4, etc.) instead of a “name” like Fuhr Elise or Eine Kline Nachtmusik?

Question

I can only speak for myself, but this makes it really hard to keep track of the songs I like. I love listening to classical music but if you asked me my favorite artists I would have difficulty telling you specifics.

In: 8720

Answer 1

Composers these days title their music so buyers easily know what piece to look for when they are buying something. Composers back then generally didn’t market their music to the public and didn’t need “name recognition” of their pieces because mostly they were working under a rich person’s patronage to earn their living.