Lesson 2:  Influences on the Romantic Period

Influences on the Romantic Period

In addition to reacting to the Classical period, a number of other influences greatly affected the music produced during the Romantic period. As with any time period, what is happening socially and culturally is reflected, at least to some degree, in the music. The nineteenth century in Europe and North America was a time of great change. The Industrial Revolution was having a huge impact on the structure of society and the ways that individuals interacted with each other.

While the emphasis on reason may have ebbed during the Romantic period, scientific discoveries and advances did not. The nineteenth century is full of new scientific developments, including the practical use of electricity, the telegraph, the use of anesthesia in surgery, and the passenger train. Scientific advances also impacted music. For example, during the nineteenth century, improvements were made to the valves used in some of the woodwinds and brass instruments. Changes to some instruments made them more reliable and, in some cases, easier to play. For musicians, the changes meant they could produce fuller sounds from many of the instruments.

Another factor that influenced music in a number of ways was the rise of nationalism or a strong identification with a particular political group, often an ethnic group. Nationalism is often accompanied by a strong sense of pride and connection with one’s particular group. Although the beginning of the nineteenth century was relatively stable in most parts of Europe, turmoil between nations and groups began to emerge in the latter half of the century. Some groups sought to govern themselves rather than be ruled by another country. Other countries sought to expand their territories through colonization in various parts of the world. This nationalism often found its way into the music of the period. Composers increasingly used elements in the music that were related to their national heritages. For example, many of the operas written during this period relate the histories of particular ethnic groups or nations. Some composers adopted melodies and other musical elements that were common in the folk music of a country. In addition, some works were adopted by individuals as a symbol of their nation, not unlike the identification with a national anthem that we see today.