The title of Beethoven's 6th symphony, "Pastoral" refers to a sense of nature and the countryside. There has been much debate on whether Beethoven was a Classical or Romantic musician. However, this piece creates a bridge between the music within the classical and romantic era. It can be argued that this is a classical piece as it includes fugue, canon, and theme and variation; which are distinctive elements of Classical writing. However, this symphony is based largely around the natural world which is made evident through Beethoven's five movements. He opens this piece with warmth and calmness, as he sets the scene of arrival on the countryside. In his fourth movement, "Thunderstorm," Beethoven shifts to a darker tone, foreshadowing trouble ahead. After the storm, Beethoven concludes gracefully with "feelings of joy and gratitude after the storm." The various emotions emphasized through the natural surroundings reflect the influence of the Romantic era on Beethoven's music.
The following website is a great resource to help to deepen your understanding of some of Beethoven's musical concepts and the transition of music in the Romantic era. Check it out!
http://www.favorite-classical-composers.com/pastoral-symphony.html
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