Composers thus began to support themselves by writing instruction books or methods, giving music lessons, and composing music that merchant class amateur musicians could play. ... Important Classical Period composers include Franz Josef Haydn, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, and Ludwig van Beethoven.

How could composers support themselves in romantic period?

They composed works meant for the middle class and participated more in public concerts. During this time, more conservatories were added and some composers opted to become teachers there. Other composers supported themselves financially by becoming music critics or authors.

What are some of the ways composers could earn a living in the classical period?

What are some of the ways composers could earn a living in the Classical Period? By writing instruction books/methods, giving music lessons, composing music for merchant classes, etc.