Romantic period & piano

Romantic period & piano

1. How the piano developed

   • It had been around since 18th century, but it developed in the 19th, which made it popular for romantic composers.
   • Size:
     • the piano changed shape & got bigger and louder. this changed the dynamics.
   • Keys:
     • It had more keys - 7 octaves. large range of pitch
   • Pedals:
     • Both pedals became more effective. Some modern pianos have a 3rd one, which allows some notes to be held, but not others.
   • Strings:
     • They were thicker and longer, making a fuller tone. They were also pulled tighter so they were more tense.
   • Frame:
     • Used to be made of wood, but were now made of metal. this made them easier to transport.
   • Hammers:
     • Were given a felt covering. this made the tone softer and more rounded.

2. Melodies

   • Melody was the most important part.
   • Often marked in cantabile - to be played in singing style.
   • Lots of virtuosic sections and cadenzas for the pianist to show off.
   • Large range of dynamics, articulation & tone. Often used pedals to get right sound.
   • Accompaniment often in broken chords, which would spread across several octaves.

3. Concertos, Sonatas and preludes

   • Pianos were popular for concertos- the pianist was able to show off.
     • Rachmaninov was famous for this.
   • Chopin, Liszt, Mendelssohn & Schumann all composed Sonatas.
   • Preludes were a piece of music that came before the main music.
     • During the romantic period, they became more popular as stand-alone pieces.