Early Romantic Period (1820 - 1850)
The early Romantic period was a time of great thinkers, artists, and scientists. It is possible that the wealth of creativity at the time reflected the desire of 18th century philosophers to reassess reality and, in particular, man's role in the universe.
Early Romantic music was all about emotion and individual expression--the extremes of joy and sorrow, triumph and dejection, passion and despair. The intensity of passion, individualism and the striving for self-expression are central to the Romantic spirit.
In the early Romantic period, the concerto emerged as one of the chief musical forms of the concert platform. The use of a soloist typified the Romantic spirit of individual self-expression. In the Romantic concerto, dynamic contrast could be taken to extremes, with the delicacy of a solo instrument balanced against the full sound of an orchestra. From the performance point of view, too, the concerto exemplified the age of the Romantic spirit. As a result, showmanship and technique became just as important as musical form and content.
contributed by Gifford, Katya
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