Let us listen attentively today to Romantic Era composer Frédéric Chopin's Mazurka Op. 17 no. 4.
Romanticism is very noticeable here in the way Chopin weaves his ornamentations inbetween the beautiful chromaticisms (the use of raised or lowered notes instead of the normal degrees of the scale; chromaticism often serves to heighten the emotional tension of music).
The increased use of dissonance (tones sounding simoutaneously are said to be dissonant if they produce an 'unpleasant' effect; among other intervals, seconds and sevenths are dissonant) and extended use of chromaticism were important features of the Romantic Era.
Another feature of the era is the composers' will to explore the full potential of classical instruments, adding colour to their works. Interpreters are given more freedom to leave their personal imprint in their performances.
Enjoy the Op. 17 no. 4 in a classical performance, by Horowitz.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vmLvpJySb50
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