Discuss in detail the characteristics of Romantic music, and tell how it differed from previous musical styles

Love talking about music.

In brief,

The Romantic period of music is roughly early 19th Century (when Beethoven wrote "Erotic Symphony" in 1803 to late 19th century with the rise of a nationalist styles e.g. Tchaikovsky) to 1900.

The characteristics of this period were an increased focus on themes and melodies; melodies finding expression in the use of the cyclic form (multiple sections or movements) as a unifying device e.g. Brahms Symphony No. 3.

The period of Romantic music differed from previous musical styles, in particular, the classical era in several ways.

1. Pieces become longer during this period.

2. The use of symphony orchestras increased.

3. The range and power of the piano helped achieve for composers harmonic fluidity and expression, including influence from literary inspirations.

4. A melding of art and music symbolized this period, where inspirations attempted to increase emotional expression, while continuing the formal structures of the classical period.

5. Possibly most important difference is influence and impact of nationalism.

During the classical period composers wrote for patrons. During the Romanic period, composers incorporated native elements: dances, folk songs, histories. Moreover, musical language was diversified in rhythm, melody, and respective national characteristics.