Nocturne The transition from the Baroque to the classical period was characterized by a re-evaluation of the relationship between humanity and nature. Allegories gave way to real characters and situations. Simplicity and balance became important stylistic elements. At the same time, music was increasingly seen as a pleasant way of passing the time. This was also the time during which the recorder developed into a chamber music instrument for 'rich gentlemen'. A recorder was sometimes built into a walking stick, so that a flute would always be available for playing a suitable melody during a walk in the country. .....