This term also refers to the very special attributes of the Orchestra at Mannheim in the 18th century. It was the beginning of the classical era of music and composers like Stamitz were writing for the orchestra at Mannheim. Often called an "army of generals" the Mannheim orchestra was famous for their virtuoso playing and their very special treatment of dynamics, being able to smoothly transition from pianissimo to fortissimo with incredible accuracy and occasionally speed. This effect came to be known as the Mannheim Steamroller effect.