Lesson 17: Romantic Period Composers, 1830–1900

Where and when was Rossini born, and what was his background?

Born in Italy in 1792 to a poor musical family. His father was a trumpeter, his mother a singer. He grew up around the theater.

How did Rossini’s musical style bridge Classical and Romantic periods?

Influenced by Haydn and Mozart (Classical), but used unusual rhythms, powerful finales, crescendos, and greater orchestral importance (Romantic traits).

What is the “Rossini crescendo”?

A gradual increase in volume and excitement over time, famously used in operatic finales like La pietra del paragone.

What are Rossini’s most famous operas and final work?

Il barbiere di Siviglia, Tancredi, Semiramide, and Guillaume Tell, which emphasized nationalism and liberty.

What early experiences shaped Berlioz’s musical development?

Raised Catholic, first inspired by church music, homeschooled, learned flute and flageolet, and began composing early.

Why did Berlioz abandon medicine?

Exposure to Parisian opera and composers like Gluck and Spontini convinced him to pursue music despite family opposition.

What was the Prix de Rome, and why was it important to Berlioz?

A prestigious scholarship; after multiple attempts, he won in 1830, allowing him to study in Rome for two years.

What roles and achievements defined Berlioz’s career?

Composer, conductor, and influential music critic; known for innovative orchestration and large-scale Romantic works like Roméo et Juliette.

What made Mendelssohn a musical prodigy?

First public performance at age 9, orchestral symphony by 15, and early recognition as a master composer.

How did Mendelssohn influence the revival of earlier music?

He revived interest in J.S. Bach by conducting Bach’s works, including an oratorio, in Berlin.

Why is Mendelssohn sometimes considered “less Romantic”?

He came from wealth and experienced consistent success, but his music still shows Romantic emotion, fantasy, and nature themes.

What are Mendelssohn’s major contributions to music institutions?

Founded the Leipzig Conservatory in 1843 and taught composition alongside Robert Schumann.

What defined Chopin’s early life and musical focus?

A child prodigy trained by his mother, he composed early and focused exclusively on piano music.

Why is Chopin closely associated with Romanticism?

His music emphasizes emotion, poetic inspiration, haunting melodies, and subtle tonal color.

What types of works did Chopin compose?

Nocturnes, polonaises, mazurkas, waltzes, preludes, sonatas, and ballades, all for solo piano.

How did health affect Chopin’s life and career?

Chronic illness (tuberculosis) limited his lifespan and touring, contributing to an intense but short career.

What early influences shaped Schumann’s artistic life?

Encouraged by his publisher father, trained in piano and literature, inspired by Franz Schubert.

Why did Schumann abandon performing as a career?

A hand injury caused paralysis in his right middle finger, preventing virtuoso performance.

Describe Schumann’s relationship with Clara Wieck.

They married despite her father’s opposition; Clara supported the family by performing his works from memory.

What struggles marked Schumann’s later life?

Severe mental illness, likely bipolar disorder, and syphilis led to institutionalization and early death.