The Romantic Period [1815-1910]

A Brief History to Western Art Music

The Romantic Period (1815-1910)

The early days of the Romantic period

Source: http://assets8.classicfm.com/2012/41/classical-period-string-quartet-1349964413-article-0.jpg

The Romantic period style in art music followed decades after the initial movement originating in France. Music in the Romantic period placed emphatic emphasis on emotions, particularly wonder; a Romantic notion. In addition, the Romantic ideals of individualism- questioning the 'laws' and existence of God- were unequivocally highlighted in the works of Romantic composers. Some of these notions had begun to emerge in works in the late Classical period, most notably Beethoven's Ninth Symphony. The Romantic era for music was a time of experimentation, music free of the constraints of reason and music based on pure emotion.

Key Characteristics

• Greater thematic and tonal contrasts
• Tone colour as an end in itself, treated as a 'perpetual source of wonder'.
• Rhythm was generally a less vital force; greater use of vibrato.
• Texture emphasised harmony and tone colour rather than a line. The 'power' of the chord was the most important objective.
• Increased use of a wider range of notes and bigger, more unusual leaps.
• Increased emphasis on chromaticism, often with harmony or complex rhythms.

Key Composers

Autour du Piano 'Around the Piano'  by Henri Fantin-Latour (1885)

• Frederic Chopin (1810 - 1849)

A portrait of the Chopin

Image Source: https://rocklegend.org/media/artists/21/artwork.jpg

Frederic Chopin was a child prodigy and virtuoso pianist whose works consisted mainly on the solo piano. Throughout his life, Chopin suffered from poor health and troubled love-affairs (stereotypes of Romanticism). Chopin rarely performed at public recitals, preferring to teach piano at a premium price. Recognised worldwide as a leading composer of the Romantic era, Chopin has been described as a poetic genius.

 Chopin's Nocturne Op. 2 No. 9
One of his most famous pieces

• Franz Liszt (1810 - 1849)

A portrait of Lizst
Image Source: http://media.web.britannica.com/eb-media/04/82304-050-242D7462.jpg

Franz Liszt as a virtuoso pianist was renowned in Europe for being one of the most technically advanced pianists of his era. Liszt's life was filled with tragedy from the death of his 20 year old son to love affairs, these emotions were subsequently reflected in his compositions.

Liszt's Lieblestraum No. 3, his most popular piano piece

Closing Thoughts

Ah, the Romantic period. Without question my personal favourite. Possibly with notions most relatable of the three, the degree of freedom provided to the performer.From my experience, people from non-musical backgrounds favour Romantic pieces over Baroque and Classical pieces. You don't have to be a part of a specific echelon to truly appreciate the music. All interpretations of Romantic pieces should be performed from the heart, allowing it to be beautiful and sincere. Embrace it, you no longer have to follow every rule; you can step a little beyond the boundaries. This is what makes the pieces of the Romantic era truly special.

Post by Wing