What is a typical size for a Classical era symphony orchestra?

The typical size of a Classical era symphony orchestra is best characterized by a small set of string and wind instruments. During this period, which spans approximately from the mid-18th century to the early 19th century, orchestras generally consisted of a core group of strings (violins, violas, cellos, and double basses), along with a limited number of woodwinds (like flutes, oboes, clarinets, and bassoons) and brass instruments (such as trumpets and horns).

This arrangement allowed for clarity and balance in orchestration, which was a hallmark of Classical music. Composers like Haydn and Mozart wrote for orchestras that typically ranged in size from around 20 to 40 musicians, which provided a rich harmonic texture without overwhelming the other parts.

In contrast, the other options presented suggest very different configurations. A large ensemble of brass and woodwinds would imply an instrumentation that is not characteristic of the Classical tradition, which prioritized a more blended sound. A choir and full orchestra indicates a larger scale performance typical of later Romantic music or choral works, while a solo performer describes a soloistic context, which is not representative of the collective orchestral context typical of the Classical era.