Romantic Harmony: A musical approach characterized by expressive, emotive chord progressions, expanded tonal structures, and chromaticism, predominantly used during the Romantic era (circa 1800-1910).
Context and Significance
Romantic harmony is pivotal in the evolution of Western music, marking a shift from the structured forms of the Classical period to more expressive compositions. This approach is evident in symphonies, operas, and solo instrumental works, where composers sought to evoke deep emotional responses. The use of chromaticism, unresolved dissonances, and extended chords enabled more dynamic and coloristic soundscapes, often reflecting the turbulent, dramatic narratives prevalent in Romantic literature and art.
Historical Background
Emerging in the early 19th century, Romantic harmony was influenced by the innovations of Beethoven and further developed by composers like Franz Schubert, Johannes Brahms, and Richard Wagner. The period saw a break from the strictures of Classical harmony, embracing more adventurous tonal relationships. This era coincided with broader cultural shifts, including the rise of individualism and the exploration of human emotions, which resonated throughout the music of the time, pushing boundaries and redefining harmonic conventions.
Examples
Frédéric Chopin’s Nocturnes are exemplary of Romantic harmony, utilizing rich, chromatic chords to create an intimate and expressive atmosphere. Wagner’s operas, particularly “Tristan und Isolde,” demonstrate advanced harmonic language with unresolved tensions that revolutionized music theory. In orchestral music, Gustav Mahler’s symphonies showcase the dramatic potential of Romantic harmony, blending lush, expansive chords with poignant melodic lines.
Related Terms
Chromaticism: Use of notes outside the standard scale, creating richer harmonic textures.
Extended Chords: Chords that include notes beyond the basic triad, such as ninths or thirteenths.
Dissonance: A combination of tones that clash, often used for tension and release in music.
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