In the Romantic period (that is, 19th century) the orchestra grew in size and function; the single ambitions of the age provided prominence in feeling of individuality.
Expansion of the Orchestra’s Size and Scope
Ensembles developed rapidly during the same period and numerous orchestras comprised performers in numbers exceeding one hundred musicians. New instruments including piccolo, tuba and the English horn were added whereas obtuse units were developed to form larger and powerful sounding divisions. Orchestral music is basically an art of painting passion, storytelling and painting scenes based on literature, nature, and real life experiences.
Notable Composers: Beethoven, Tchaikovsky, and Wagner
- Ludwig van Beethoven: Symphonies orchestrated by Beethoven are considered to have changed the texture of the orchestra. His symphonies No. 9 “Choral”, he used vocal soloists and a chorus something that revolutionized orchestral music.
- Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky: Hailed for his rich harmonies and passionate arranging, the composer Pyotr Tchaikovsky whose ballets, Swan Lake and Nutcracker Suite and Sixth Symphony or Pathetique are still standard concert fare.
- Richard Wagner: Wagner created new interactions between the orchestra and the stage on a new innovative level and made use of leitmotif to depict characters or themes.
20th Century and Beyond
The twentieth century was marked by changes and development in orchestral works since composers and conductors embraced the new fashion and inventions.
Modern Orchestras and New Music Styles
Genetic trends began to appear first in the compositions of Igor Stravinsky, Leonard Bernstein and John Williams with relatively unorthodox characteristics found in certain sections of their orchestral works. Stravinsky’s The Rite of Spring causes gory with untidy and intricate rhythms; and Bernstein’s West Side Story combines orchestral features with Broadway sounds. Some folks for orchestral music were gained through film scores and John Williams producing several motifs for the movies such as Star Wars themed and Harry Potter.
Technological Influences and Innovations
Technological growth in recording and broadcasting made the orchestras more extendable as their performances can be entertained by the global public. Technological advancement through digital streaming services has placed classical music in an easier reach for most people than before. Orchestras also start exploring electronic instruments and multimedia aspects in the performances and compositions which correspond to new tendencies of musical preferences.
Conclusion
The story of the orchestra is a compelling account of the sustaining force of music and one’s ability to evolve and bring change. The inspiring development of the concept from the times of ancient Greece and Rome to the present day is described in detail to emphasize the versatility and longevity of the tradition of orchestras. Other institutions like the Chappaqua Orchestra maintains this great tradition to ensure that the orchestra will always be alive.