Introduction to Romanticism

by Elliott Jones of Santa Ana College

for Kaleidoscope Open Course Initiative shared under a Creative Commons Attribution License

Classicism vs. Romanticism

Classicism: order, poise, symmetry

Classicism: views the world objectively

Classicism: inspired by Greek architecture

Romanticism: wonder, ecstasy, irregularity

Romanticism: self-expression paramount

Romanticism: nature and imagination

The Romantic Sound

Quest for emotion in music Love was favorite emotional theme

– Unending desire for love– Search for the unattainable– A sense of yearning or longing

Expressive terms in music– Dolente, con fuoco, misterioso, etc.

Role of Music

Music as art instead of mere entertainment Artist as a divine force for enlightenment Composing for the ages – “art for art’s sake” Concerts became more serious events More expected of music and listener

– Music was longer, more complex– Listener expected transcendence

Influence on Modern Ideals

We continue to view music through the Romantic perspective– Our attitudes toward art and artists– Concert etiquette

The idea of a “canon” of concert music– A core body of masterworks that are frequently

performed and preserved These ideas all arose in 19th century

Romantic Style

More evolution than revolution Lyrical melody still dominates Melody: less rigid in structure Harmony: chromatic, dramatic, & dissonant Tempo: rubato became very common Form: grandiose large forms and

concentrated character pieces

Romantic Orchestra

Wildly contrasting dynamic markings– pppp vs. ffff

Industrial revolution brings changes– Flutes become metal w/fingering mechanism– Trumpet and French horn get valves

New instruments added to orchestra– Tuba, English horn, harp

Conductors necessary: leader & interpreter