Romantic Piano Music

• Which composers are mentioned in the study material for their piano music?

  Chopin, Brahms, and Grieg
• What artistic movement began in the early nineteenth century according to the study material?

  Romanticism
• What was the focus of new thinking during the Romantic period?


  The freedom of the individual
• How did Romantic music differ from Classical music?


  It concentrated more on personal expression rather than formal design
• What inspired the music of the Romantic period?

  Poetry, the force of nature, and the supernatural
• What themes did Romantic music aim to express?


  Heroism, destruction, and private intimacies
• What recent developments in piano construction are mentioned?

  Cast iron frames, felt hammers, seven octave range, and sustaining pedals
• What were the significant improvements in piano construction for Romantic expression?

  • Cast iron frames for larger, stronger strings
  • Felt hammers instead of leather
  • Seven octave range (up from five)
  • Establishment of sustaining and una corda pedals
• What was the result of the improvements in piano construction?

  A more sonorous tone and broader palette of colours
• How did the improvements affect the sustaining power of the piano?

  It supported legato phrasing and espressivo cantabile
• What dynamic range did the improvements in piano construction allow?


  More sensitive gradations from ppp to fff
• What did the improvements provide to composers regarding the printed score?

  Greater expressive direction to the performer
• What pianistic techniques were emphasized due to the improvements?


  Involving wrists and forearms instead of purely digital action
• Which composers capitalized on the changes in piano construction?

  Chopin and Liszt
• How did Chopin and Liszt's music reflect the changes in piano construction?


  It displayed virtuosity, technical accomplishment, and showmanship
• How did the approach of Chopin and Liszt compare to that of Paganini?


  They both showcased virtuosity and technical skill in their respective instruments