Romantic Period

1800-1910

The Romantic era prioritized emotion, individualism, and imagination. Composers explored themes of nature, the supernatural, nationalism, and heroism, leading to larger orchestras, more complex harmonies, and expressive freedom.

Musical Characteristics

Emphasis on emotion, expression, and individualism
Expansion of orchestral size and range
Increased use of chromaticism and dissonance
Development of program music (music telling a story or depicting a scene)
Greater dynamic range and tempo flexibility (rubato)
Longer, more lyrical melodies
Nationalism (incorporation of folk music/themes)

Key Composers

Ludwig van Beethoven

1770-1827

His later works mark the beginning of the Romantic era

Frédéric Chopin

1810-1849

Master of piano miniatures

Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky

1840-1893

Known for ballets, symphonies, and concertos

Johannes Brahms

1833-1897

Leading German Romantic composer

Richard Wagner

1813-1883

Revolutionized opera with his music dramas

Franz Schubert

1797-1828

Prolific composer of Lieder

Important Musical Forms

Symphonic Poem (Tone Poem)Lieder (Art Song)NocturneWaltzPolonaiseBalladeConcertoOperaBallet

Common Instruments

Piano (modern grand piano)Expanded string sectionsFull complement of woodwinds (including piccolo, English horn, bass clarinet, contrabassoon)Brass section (including tuba, more horns and trombones)Extensive percussion