The Romantic Period

Approx. 1810-1910

Context: The Romantic Era was arguably a cultural response to the Industrial revolution that was sweeping Europe. Many people were forced to move to cramped and polluted cities to find work in factories and so art began to dream of their home in the countryside for them. This point in history also saw the beginning of the rise of Nationalism that ultimately led to the wars of the 20th century. The music of this time extolled the virtues of the land of its origin and the beauty and strength of its people. The Romantic era was also a rejection of the scientific explanations of nature. It frequently harked back to medieval tales of magic, chivalry and the supernatural. This can also be seen in the literature or the time with works like Dracula, Frankenstein and the writings of authors like Edgar Allan Poe.

Characteristics:
-Liberation from the rigid structures of the Classical era. Introduction of the ‘Fantasy’ form of writing.
-Sweeping melody lines and rich harmony. Moving away from diatonic harmony (i.e. sticking rigidly to the notes of the scale).
-Sweeping dynamics.
-Incorporation of folk tunes and a yearning for the countryside.
-New Instruments- Valve trumpets, horns, modern trombones and the mighty tuba! Wind instruments got even more keys and so became increasingly versatile.
-Much bigger orchestras, with bigger wind sections. Much more power!
Verdi’s Requiem is one of the loudest pieces of classical music ever.