Ludwig van Beethoven bridged the gap between the Classical and Romantic eras and introduced programmatic content (or, music that is about something) into music. Following Beethoven’s developments, composers of the Romantic Period worked on music that was more expressive and emotive.
Responding to the rationalism of the 18th century, the Romantic Period was about love and a celebration of nature and of the simpler life. Music during this time was inspired by nature, literature, legends, and national identity. Stunning virtuoso performers emerged during this time who were widely praised for their instrumental skills. For example, Franz Liszt and Frédéric Chopin were not only composers but also brilliant pianists.
The orchestral ensemble that was established during the Classical Period continued to enjoy favor in the Romantic Period. The piano continued to be one of the most popular instruments as both a solo instrument and in the setting of an orchestra. It was during this time that the piano and other instruments developed into what we recognize them as today.
This period produced remarkable works that had longer melodies than in the Classical Period. Many composers used music to celebrate the folk sounds of their countries. Some of the most revered composers of this period were Johannes Brahms, Claude Debussy, Antonin Dvorák, Edvard Grieg, Gioachino Rossini, Franz Schubert, Robert Schumann, Pyotr Tchaikovsky, and Richard Wagner.
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