The use of the damper pedal in the classical period: Steibelt and Dussek and their influence on Austrian composers

The present study investigates the development of the use of the damper pedal during the Classical period, with emphasis on the great contributions made by Steibelt and Dussek. Pedaling by the Austrian composers Mozart, Haydn, Woelfl, Kozeluch, and Beethoven is also considered, looking at the connections among these composers and the possible influence on them of London School composers such as Steibelt and Dussek. On the whole, the effects that these composers intended by means of the damper pedal are clear and precise—different from modern pedaling in which the consistent use of the damper pedal is normal and special effects are achieved by not using the damper pedal. This study hopes to have recognized the contribution of Steibelt and Dussek to the development of the use of the damper pedal, and to have encouraged pianists of today to take into consideration the pedal indications of composers of this period