The Romantic Period in Music: Social Change and Piano Virtuosity (1805–1905)

The Romantic Era in Music and Culture (1805–1905)

Historical Context and Key Dates

The period spanning roughly 1805 to 1905 was marked by significant historical shifts:

• Beethoven's 3rd Symphony, the Eroica, premiered.
• The French Revolution (1789) led to the decline of monarchical power.

The Social Scene: Bourgeoisie and Individualism

The bourgeoisie finally broke with established conventions. New thinkers sought to give free rein to man's wishes, often expressing a sense of nostalgia.

Shifting Cultural Venues

Artistic development moved from strictly private circles into more open cultural and artistic meetings, increasing public access to the arts.

The New Musical Economy

New concepts in music appeared as people increasingly worked in factories and trade, leading to a new economic model for music consumption, including the practice of buying tickets for musical events.

Leading Romantic Composers

• Franz Schubert
• Robert Schumann
• Frédéric Chopin

Characteristics of the Romantic Musician

Romantic musicians were often characterized by their individualism, rebellious nature, and vital urge. This new status brought several changes:

1. They were no longer servants to the aristocracy.
2. Public interest in music increased significantly. The middle class now determined the success or failure of a work based on applause.
3. Musicians gained a new source of income derived from activities such as teaching.

The Philosophy of Romantic Art

Instrumental music was considered the most important artistic manifestation of the period due to its great capacity to express emotions and sentiments.

For Romantics, art served as a form of evasion from reality, possessing the capacity to create imaginary worlds.

Development of the Romantic Symphony

A significant change in the symphony was that the rules for composition became freer than in the previous period.

Beethoven was paramount among Romantic composers, developing this musical genre to its maximum potential in both formal aspects and timbre.

The Rise of Romantic Piano Music

The technical perfection of the piano during this period made it highly important. The instrument adapted perfectly to the musical demands of the age, suitable for both small private gatherings and public performances.

The majority of composers were virtuosi on the piano. Instrumental piano music was highly appreciated for its capacity to express sensations central to Romanticism, such as intimacy and love.

New Small Forms of Piano Music

Piano interpretations introduced a new variety of small forms adapted to the aesthetics of the period:

1. Nocturnes and Fantasies: Characterized by a sentimental nature.
2. Études: Brief compositions intended as a "study" to improve technical skills (e.g., Chopin's Op. 10).
3. Waltzes and Polonaises: Inspired by traditional dances.
4. Impromptus: Brief compositions where a free form predominates.