Neoclassicism and Romanticism: Key Composers and Musical Forms

Characteristics of Neoclassicism (18th Century)

The Neoclassical period comprises the second half of the 18th century. Key characteristics include:

• Objective composition.
• Focus on the ideal of Beauty.
• Bright melodic lines and phrases that are cheerful, square, and regular.
• Prevalence of instrumental music, particularly the sonata form.
• The birth of the democratization of music.

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

Mozart is considered a child prodigy of music. The last stage of his life was difficult due to financial problems and illness. He was largely self-taught and served the Bishop of Salzburg and the Emperor of Austria.

Key Characteristics and Works

His works highlight spontaneity and tenderness. Major compositions include:

• Instrumental Music: Over 50 symphonies, sonatas, and serenades (e.g., Eine kleine Nachtmusik).
• Sacred Music: Masses, including the Requiem and the Coronation Mass.
• Operas: The Clemency of Titus, The Magic Flute (known for its popular character), and Così fan tutte.

The Romantic Era (1815–1850)

The Romantic Era generally spans the period between 1815 and 1850, though its influence continued into the 20th century. This is often called the Age of the Piano.

Musical Characteristics

• Emphasis on melodic style.
• Use of popular music (Nationalism).
• Predominance in both vocal and instrumental music, often favoring lower voices.
• The rise of the professional musician as an idol (virtuosity), particularly for the violin and piano.

Although the piano appeared in the 18th century, it did not achieve widespread fame until the 19th century, becoming the favorite instrument due to its dramatic and sonic possibilities.

Key Romantic Composers

• Frédéric Chopin (Polish): Known for his great technique and exclusive focus on the piano.
• Franz Liszt (Hungarian): A spectacular and brilliant virtuoso.
• Robert Schumann (German): Considered a central figure and driving force of Romanticism.

Symphonic Development in Romanticism

Symphonism flourished during the Romantic period, beginning with Beethoven, whose influence shaped subsequent composers.

Major Symphonists

• Franz Schubert: Composed 9 symphonies, with the 8th being particularly important.
• Felix Mendelssohn: Considered more Classical in style; composed 5 symphonies.
• Robert Schumann: Wrote 4 symphonies, including the famous “Rhenish” Symphony.
• Johannes Brahms: Often considered the closest successor to Beethoven and a master of orchestral writing.
• Gustav Mahler: Composed 10 symphonies utilizing gigantic orchestral forces.

The Lied: Romantic Song Form

The Lied (German art song) is an intimate song form for a single voice accompanied by piano. It is characterized by a writing style where the music and text interpenetrate deeply, often setting romantic poems to music.

Key Lied Composers

• Franz Schubert: Often credited as the creator of the Romantic Lied. He set poems by Goethe and Schiller, composing over 600 Lieder, including the famous cycles Die schöne Müllerin (The Beautiful Miller) and Winterreise (Winter Journey).
• Other Composers: Robert Schumann, Johannes Brahms, and Hugo Wolf.