Romanticism

1. Introduction to Romanticism
by Elliott Jones
of Santa Ana College
for Kaleidoscope Open Course Initiative shared under a
Creative Commons Attribution License

2. 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

3. 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.

4. 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

5. 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

6. 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

7. 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