Weber

Question 1

When was Weber alive?

Answer 1

1786-1926

Question 2

Who was Weber?

Answer 2

Weber was a German composer and pianist from the Early Romantic Period. He studied with Haydn in Salzburg and Vogler in Vienna. He made his debut as a pianist at the age of 13 and was appointed Kapellmeister (conductor) in Breslau at 17. He later worked as director of the Prague Opera and Kapellmeister in Dresden. He is considered to be founder of German Romantic opera.

Question 3

How do Weber’s works reflect music from that period.

Answer 3

Weber’s works are typical of early Romantic period in their sweet melodic style, sparkling technique, use of chromaticism and occasionally adventurous harmonies and freer approach to formal structure.

Question 4

Name some types of compositions Weber has composed.

Answer 4

• 10 operas
• 3 masses
• 2 symphonie
• clarinet and piano concertos
• piano and clarinet quintets

Question 5

Comtempories?

Answer 5

Beethoven, Paganini and Schubert.

Question 6

What is a concertino?

Answer 6

A work for solo instrument with orchestral accompaniment.

Question 7

Who were Weber’s concertos composed for?

Answer 7

Weber’s concertino, as well as his two full-length concertos, was written for clarinetist Heinrich Baermann in 1811.

Question 8

Stylistic characteristics of Romantic period?

Answer 8

• sparkling virtuosity
• lyrical melodies, to be played with warm, singing voice
• wide range of dynamics and moods
• rich harmonies, with many 7th chords, occasional 9ths, and some chromaticism and expressive dissonance.
• expressive tempo changes and rhythmic flexibility with tempo rubato at performers discretion.