Romantic Era Instruments (1820-1900)
Romantic Era Music Instruments: An Overview
Romantic era music instruments allowed composers to create emotional and dynamic music. The grand piano was reinforced with a steel frame, increasing its dynamic range. Orchestras were larger and sometimes included cannons. There were also some newly invented instruments, such as the saxophone.
The Use of Cannons in Romantic Music
Some composers used cannons to create a Nationalistic effect in their compositions. An example of this was in Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture (written in 1880). It was composed to celebrate the Russian victory over Napoleon in 1812. Beethoven also used cannons in his Battle Symphony (1813). It calls for artillery effects, which included cannons, to depict the Battle of Vitoria.
Newly Invented Romantic Era Instruments
Saxophone
The Romantic era also saw the invention of some important new instruments. The saxophone, was invented in the mid-19th century by the Belgian instrument maker Adolphe Sax. The saxophone was originally intended for use in military bands, but it soon found a place in classical music as well. The saxophone’s warm and expressive sound has made it a popular instrument in jazz and popular music today. The saxophone looks like a brass instrument, but is actually a woodwind because it uses a reed.
Grand Piano
Another important instrument that emerged during the Romantic era was the concert grand piano. This instrument, which is much larger than earlier pianos, allowed for greater dynamic range and expressive possibilities. Composers like Chopin and Liszt were drawn to the concert grand piano and wrote many pieces that showcased its capabilities.
Tuba
The tuba was invented in 1835 by Wilhelm Friedrich Wieprecht. It is the lowest-pitched brass instrument. The original tuba used five valves. Before the invention of valves, notes had to be part of the harmonic series.
Critical Thinking Questions
- What new Romantic era music instruments were invented or improved upon?
- What instrument had five valves which made low-pitched playing easier?
- What instrument is considered a woodwind instrument invented by Adolphe Sax?