Romantic Period (1815 to 1910)

Romantic Period is the third period of music (European) which I am exposed to, where repertoires in this period were composed between 1815 to 1910. For a more detailed historical background of repertoire created during this period can be found here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Romantic_music

To play music of this period, we need to take note of the following:-

1. The sustain pedal is invented as pieces is usually played using a piano or organ. Hence, there is a heavy use of pedal to create the necessary mood. Because of that, trills are not used to extend a note. The pedal is used instead.

2. Pieces in this period is usually more expressive and emotional. There is a need to use a greater range of dynamics, long crescendos and decrescendos. And the piano used in this period are capable of delivering a much bigger range of dynamics.

3. Usually more complex patterns than Baroque and Classical periods.

4. Greater flexibility, allows rubato to bring out the emotive and increase the expressions.

Classical Period (1730 to 1820)

Classical Period is the second period of music (European) which I am exposed to, where repertoires in this period were composed between 1730 to 1820. For a more detailed historical background of repertoire created during this period can be found here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Classical_period_(music)

To play music of this period, we need to take note of the following:-
1. The pedal is invented as pieces can be played using a piano. Hence, light use of pedal is allowed. But generally, still not too much use of the pedals. Because of that, trills are not used to extend a note. Pedal is used instead.

2. Melody can be sing out, usually accompanied by chords (blocked or broken) by the left hand. And the melody needs to be 2 dynamic levels louder than the accompaniment.

3. There is often repeated motives (in terms of notes or beats or rythmns), which will be played with varying dynamics in each case.

4. Range of dynamics is also larger. From pp to ff.

5. Breath between phrases just like as if you are singing the melody, need to breath. So a clear cut.

6. Sonata (or Sonatina: smaller versions of Sonatas) are introduced. Sonata is splitted into 3 movements. 1st movement, 2nd movement and 3rd movement. For the ABRSM exams until Grade 8, we are only exposed to 1st movement in the exam pieces. A full Sonata will have all the 3 movements in a piece. Under the 1st movement, it is typically the sonata-allegro form, where there are 3 basic sections: exposition, development and recapitulation.