Masterpieces of the Romantic Era: A sweeping introduction to soul-stirring, celebrated gems!
The new musical trend that spread across Europe in the 19th century, known as the Romantic movement.
Often called “the most dazzling era in the history of classical music,” the Romantic era saw many composers—foremost among them Chopin and Liszt—leave behind a wealth of masterpieces that have been celebrated for generations.
In this article, we highlight some of the most famous works from the Romantic era, particularly those with high recognition and popularity.
We introduce them alongside insights into each composer’s characteristics, the background in which the pieces were created, and key points to listen for in the works.
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Masterpieces of the Romantic Era: A Showcase of Soul-Stirring Gems (Nos. 1–10)
Erlkönig, Op. 1, D 328Franz Schubert
Composer Franz Schubert, active from the late 18th to the early 19th century, is known for his songs such as Winterreise and Die schöne Müllerin, and his song Erlkönig, Op.
1, D 328—composed when he was 18—is also counted among his major works.
Based on Goethe’s poem of the same name, it depicts a father riding through a nocturnal forest with his ailing son.
Its original melodies and rapid repeated octaves vividly convey the gallop of the horse and the emotions of each character, demanding advanced technique from the singer, who must portray four roles.
Listeners can vicariously experience the child’s terror and the father’s desperate struggle.
Kinderszenen, Op. 15, No. 7: “Träumerei”Robert Schumann
Robert Schumann, a leading composer of the German Romantic school, originally aspired to be a pianist, but a hand injury led him to pursue composition.
His life included many events that influenced his music, such as his marriage to Clara and his association with the composer Brahms.
The seventh piece, “Träumerei,” from his well-known piano collection Scenes from Childhood, Op.
15, conveys Schumann’s rich sensitivity through its gentle, beautiful melody.
It is a masterpiece beloved not only as a piano solo but also in various arrangements.
Grandes études de Paganini, S.121, No. 3 “La Campanella”Franz Liszt
Among the set of études by Franz Liszt—dubbed the “magician of the piano”—the Grandes études de Paganini, S.121, No.
3, “La Campanella,” stands out as especially famous and popular.
Its difficulty and artistry are so extraordinary that one can’t help but ask, “Wait, this is an étude?”—and it’s fair to say many people don’t really think of it as one.
Although Liszt composed numerous works of transcendental virtuosity, this piece is an arrangement for piano of a violin work by Niccolò Paganini.
Paganini, the prodigy whose playing was so astonishing he was said to have “sold his soul to the devil,” and Liszt, the magician—no wonder the result is a parade of transcendental technique.
Masterpieces of the Romantic Era: A Sweeping Introduction to Soul-Stirring Gems (11–20)
‘Toreador Song’ from Carmen Suite No. 2Georges Bizet
The “Toreador Song” from Act II of Georges Bizet’s French-language opera Carmen.
It’s one of the most striking numbers in the opera, sung triumphantly by the bullfighter Escamillo, who has captivated Carmen, a Gypsy woman carefree in love.
Because its melody has often been used in commercials and parody versions, it’s likely one of those famous pieces known even to people who don’t usually listen to classical music.
Fantaisie-ImpromptuFrederic Chopin
Of Frédéric Chopin’s four impromptus, composed by a leading figure of the Romantic era, the first one he wrote is the most famous: the Fantaisie-Impromptu.
Many listeners recognize the piece the moment the opening octaves sound.
Because the left hand divides each beat into six and the right hand into eight, it can be difficult at first to get the hang of coordinating both hands.
However, with continued practice you’ll naturally learn to align the beats.
Keep at it patiently!
Violin Concerto in E minor, Op. 64, MWV O 14Felix Mendelssohn
Felix Mendelssohn is one of the foremost composers representing Germany in the first half of the 19th century.
His music is known for its unique style that, while inheriting the traditions of Classicism, also incorporates the sensibilities of Romanticism.
Among his works, the Violin Concerto in E minor, Op.
64, MWV O 14 is one of his masterpieces and is widely cherished as a work that fully draws out the violin’s allure.
The piece was born from Mendelssohn’s long-standing friendship with the violinist Ferdinand David.
Drawing on his own experience playing the violin, Mendelssohn demonstrates a writing style throughout that shows deep familiarity with the instrument’s characteristics.
The balance between lyrical melodies and dazzling virtuosity is exquisite, captivating listeners without fail.
It is a highly recommended piece for those who wish to revel in the violin’s beautiful sonority or experience a celebrated work of Romantic music.
Overture to the opera “Der Freischütz,” Op. 77, J. 277Carl Maria von Weber
Carl Maria von Weber, a composer who epitomizes the early Romantic era in music.
His opera Der Freischütz is a monumental work that helped establish the German Romantic opera.
This overture is a dramatic piece that distills the essence of the entire opera.
The scene in the “Wolf’s Glen,” colored by otherworldly music, is breathtaking, delving into the heart of a story that depicts the conflict between good and evil.
With vivid orchestration and memorable melodies that fire the listener’s imagination, this masterpiece is a must-hear for classical music fans.