The main musical FORMS of ROMANTICISM

Music comes in an infinity of forms, when it comes to the desire to create it is natural that an art has so many variations in its expression. When speaking of the word "form" we are also relating many concepts to the structure and the way in which we perceive the condition of being of something. This is because in order to understand something we must classify it and understand how it is composed, what defines it and what characteristics make it what it is.

Another interesting factor is knowing that our ideas are also influenced by context and current events, so therefore, our creations are often a reflection of our condition. In this lesson from a TEACHER we will talk about musical forms of romanticism and we will understand more about this time in the history of music.

Index

1. What is the musical form
2. Musical romanticism: context and characteristics
3. The different musical forms of romanticism

Before entering fully into the Musical Forms of Romanticism it is important that we know what exactly the term "form" means. The musical form are all those elements that allow us to recognize the

Each musical form has a set of characteristics that, combined, make it identifiable and differentiate from other forms, so that we can classify and recognize them as such.

As we mentioned, however original we may be, our ideas are influenced by context, a series of conditions in which we are involved and end up creating patterns.

The musical romanticismis a cultural movement that developed most strongly in Europe during late 18th and 19th century. Previously, the ideological currents (the enlightenment and neoclassicism) were based on the intellect and political and social aspects. In contrast, romanticism look for individual expressionl sentimental, the interpretation of life and nature. Romanticism seeks the proposal of personal ideas and freedom of creation, seeking the appreciation of the exotic.

Musically we can say that there was a greater use of harmonic changes, chromaticisms, minor keys, widening of musical range and variety, ambiguous colors and common use of modulations. The size of the orchestra grew, virtuosity and improvisation were more appreciated. Here we discover some of the main composers of romanticism musicl.

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Many musical forms from earlier times continued to be used because they had already been functionally established and were highly appreciated. However, we can say that the following musical forms ended up settling or increased in popularity:

Trifle

The trifle is one of the main musical forms of romanticism. It is a composition very short and light. Its name literally means “unpretentious short composition”. They were written for various instruments but mostly for piano. Example: Für Elise by Ludwig Van Beethoven.

Study

With increasing appreciation for virtuosity and technical excellence, so does the creation of specifically composed pieces. for solo musician. This type of pieces focus on the practice of a certain technical discipline and is an exercise that is difficult to execute. Example: Op.25 No.7 by Frederic Chopin.

Fantasy

It is a composition with based on improvisation. He has the musical bases of the sonata but he takes greater liberties. As a basis is the development of themes with imitative and counterpoint characteristics, it is a form of experimentation with musical motifs and virtuosity. Example: Sonata Op.27 Quasi a Fantasy by Ludwig Van Beethoven.

Impromptu

It is characterized by being composed of continuous improvisation. It is traditionally for a soloist and most are piano in character. It generally has a three-part structure: ABA. Example: Impromptus Op. 90 and 142 by Franz Schubert.

Lied

The lied is also another of the most outstanding musical forms of romanticism. Is a song of lyrical and intimate character that follows imaginary plots. It was a form inspired many times by literary texts or popular melodies. On the contrary, some works in this way became popular themes. Example: Liederkreis by Robert Schumann.

Night

Mysterious, sensitive piece of music destined to be touched at night which can be both vocal and instrumental. Its melody is sweet and its structure is free. In general, it consists of a single movement. This is one of the most acclaimed forms of Frederic Chopin, writing 21 nights. Example: Nocturno No.1 by Frederic Chopin.

Symphonic Poem

As its name implies, try merge two arts: poetry and music. The symphonic poem aims to compose a single movement musical work, which has a specific plot, a generating theme with a main idea. Example: Symphonic Poems S.95 - 107 by Franz Liszt.

Prelude

It is a short-lived composition without a specific structure. It is originally used as introduction to a major and longer work. Over time, the prelude gradually became an independent form, while maintaining its introductory function. During this time the preludes were mainly composed for piano. Example: 24 Preludes Opus 28 by Frederic Chopin.

Waltz

And we finish this tour of the musical forms of romanticism to talk about the waltz, a highly aesthetic form dedicated mainly to dance. It is slow-paced and graceful. Its origin goes back to s. XVIII but it is in this era of romanticism where the form that we currently know with a ¾ compass takes shape. Example:. The Waltz of the Flowers by Peter Tchaikovsky.

Art has no limits and that is why it takes various forms. Even so, it is very interesting to note the trends that we find according to the historical period, since we can learn about the intentions, mental and sentimental processes that the composers of a time went through determined. This, in turn, helps us to understand the rationale behind the works and to enjoy them in greater depth.

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