What Was a Characteristic of Expressionist Music?

Expressionist music, which emerged in the early 20th century as a reaction against the rationalism and objectivity of classical music, is characterized by a deep emotional intensity and a focus on the inner world of the composer. Unlike the structured and balanced compositions of the Romantic era, expressionist music emphasizes raw emotion, dissonance, and atonality, reflecting the turbulent social and political climate of the time. This movement was heavily influenced by the works of German playwrights like Friedrich Nietzsche and the philosophy of Arthur Schopenhauer, who both emphasized the importance of the individual’s subjective experience over objective reality.

One of the most distinctive features of expressionist music is the use of dissonance to convey emotional tension and conflict. Composers such as Arnold Schoenberg, one of the pioneers of this style, rejected traditional harmony in favor of a twelve-tone system that allowed for greater freedom in creating complex and unsettling musical landscapes. This approach not only mirrored the emotional upheaval of the era but also served as a means of artistic rebellion against the norms of the established musical tradition.

The subjectivity of expressionist composers is another key aspect of their work. Rather than depicting external events or narratives, these musicians sought to express their own inner experiences, often through highly personal and abstract musical forms. For example, Alban Berg’s opera “Wozzeck,” based on the play by Georg Büchner, uses stark and dramatic orchestration to evoke the psychological torment of its protagonist. Similarly, Anton Webern’s string quartets, with their spare and concentrated textures, reflect the austere and somber mood of his times.

Another characteristic of expressionist music is its often fragmented and non-linear structure. This reflects the fragmentation of modern life and society, where traditional forms of communication and expression have been disrupted. Composers like Paul Hindemith and Erich Wolfgang Korngold employed non-traditional forms and structures to challenge listeners’ expectations and provoke new modes of listening. This approach can be seen in Hindemith’s “Mathis der Maler,” which combines elements of symphonic form with jazz-like rhythms, while Korngold’s film scores, such as those for “The Sea Hawk,” blend orchestral techniques with popular music styles of the day.

Furthermore, the use of unconventional instruments and techniques is a hallmark of expressionist music. Composers like Béla Bartók incorporated folk melodies and rhythms into their works, drawing inspiration from the rich tapestry of Hungarian and Romanian folk music. This approach not only enriched the musical palette but also highlighted the diversity and complexity of human culture. Similarly, the innovative use of electronic instruments and sound effects by composers like Edgard Varèse contributed to the development of new sonic possibilities and expanded the boundaries of what could be considered “music.”

In conclusion, the characteristic of expressionist music lies in its profound emotional intensity, the exploration of subjective experience, the rejection of traditional forms, and the incorporation of diverse cultural influences. Through these elements, expressionist composers sought to capture the tumultuous spirit of their age and create a new language for musical expression.