Symphonic poem

Definition

A symphonic poem is a piece of orchestral music that tells a story or conveys a specific idea, typically inspired by literature, art, or nature. This form emerged during the Romantic era as composers sought to express deep emotions and narratives through their music, breaking away from traditional forms like the symphony.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The symphonic poem was popularized in the 19th century, particularly by composers like Franz Liszt, who is often credited with establishing the form.
2. Unlike traditional symphonies, which follow strict structures, symphonic poems allow for greater freedom and creativity in musical expression.
3. Many symphonic poems are inspired by literary sources or paintings, aiming to translate these concepts into music.
4. The form often features contrasting sections to represent different scenes or emotions within the overarching narrative.
5. Symphonic poems can vary greatly in length and complexity, with some lasting just a few minutes while others can be much longer and more intricate.

Review Questions

• How did the emergence of the symphonic poem reflect the values of Romanticism in music?
  • The emergence of the symphonic poem during the Romantic period mirrored the movement's emphasis on individual expression, emotion, and the connection between art and nature. Composers sought to transcend traditional musical forms to convey personal feelings and narratives, reflecting Romantic ideals. The symphonic poem allowed for greater freedom in structure and content, enabling composers to explore diverse themes and emotions through their orchestral works.
• Analyze how composers like Franz Liszt contributed to the development of the symphonic poem and its significance in orchestral music.
  • Franz Liszt played a crucial role in popularizing the symphonic poem as a distinct musical form. His innovative approach allowed him to break away from conventional structures and explore narrative themes through orchestral composition. By focusing on programmatic elements and emotional depth, Liszt's works set a precedent for future composers who would further develop the genre, establishing the symphonic poem as a vital part of Romantic orchestral music.
• Evaluate the impact of the symphonic poem on later musical movements and how it paved the way for new forms of artistic expression.
  • The symphonic poem significantly influenced later musical movements by encouraging composers to explore programmatic elements and emotional storytelling within their works. Its focus on narrative and vivid imagery opened up avenues for new artistic expressions in both music and other art forms. This laid the groundwork for future developments in film scores and contemporary classical music, where composers continue to use orchestral compositions to evoke specific themes and emotions.

Related terms

Program Music: Instrumental music that is intended to evoke images or convey the impression of events, often accompanied by a narrative or descriptive title.

Richard Strauss: A prominent Romantic composer known for his contributions to the symphonic poem genre, creating works like 'Also sprach Zarathustra' and 'Don Juan'.

Tone Poem: Another name for a symphonic poem, emphasizing its role in conveying a specific mood or story through orchestral music.