Sturm und drang

Definition

Sturm und Drang, translating to 'storm and stress', was a German literary and musical movement that emerged in the late 18th century, emphasizing emotional expression and individualism. This movement arose as a reaction against the rationalism of the Enlightenment and the formalism of classical music, fostering a new appreciation for intense feelings and dramatic contrasts in art. It played a significant role in shaping the transition from Baroque music to Classical and later Romantic styles by introducing expressive depth and complexity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sturm und Drang was primarily associated with German composers like Carl Philipp Emanuel Bach and later with figures such as Beethoven, who incorporated its emotional intensity into their works.
2. The movement favored dynamic contrasts, sudden shifts in tempo, and unexpected harmonic changes to convey deep emotional states.
3. Sturm und Drang also reflected broader cultural shifts of the time, as society began valuing personal expression over strict adherence to traditional forms.
4. This movement laid the groundwork for the Romantic era in music, pushing composers to explore themes of nature, love, and the human experience more freely.
5. The influence of Sturm und Drang can be seen in symphonies, sonatas, and operas that emphasize dramatic narratives and emotional depth.

Review Questions

• How did Sturm und Drang challenge the established norms of music composition during its time?
  • Sturm und Drang challenged established norms by emphasizing emotional expression over the rational structure that defined much of classical music. Composers began to explore dramatic contrasts in dynamics and tempo, breaking away from predictable patterns. This movement encouraged musicians to prioritize personal feelings and individual experiences in their compositions, creating a more intense emotional landscape that would pave the way for Romanticism.
• Discuss how Sturm und Drang reflects the cultural shifts occurring in Europe during the late 18th century.
  • Sturm und Drang reflects cultural shifts by emphasizing individualism and emotional depth at a time when society was moving away from Enlightenment rationalism. This movement resonated with a growing desire for personal freedom and expression among artists and intellectuals. As traditional authority began to be questioned, composers incorporated these values into their music, highlighting themes of passion and conflict that mirrored societal changes.
• Evaluate the lasting impact of Sturm und Drang on later musical movements and its significance in shaping modern music.
  • Sturm und Drang had a profound impact on later musical movements by laying the groundwork for Romanticism through its focus on intense emotion and individual expression. Its emphasis on drama and personal narrative significantly influenced composers like Chopin and Wagner, who sought to evoke deep feelings through their works. The legacy of Sturm und Drang can still be felt today, as contemporary music continues to explore similar themes of emotional complexity and artistic freedom.

Related terms

Romanticism: An artistic and intellectual movement that emphasized emotion, nature, and individual experience, influencing literature, visual arts, and music from the late 18th century onwards.

Empfindsamkeit: A musical style characterized by sensitivity and expressiveness, often focusing on the portrayal of personal emotions, which laid the groundwork for later Sturm und Drang compositions.

Classicism: A period in music history characterized by clarity, balance, and formality, which followed the Baroque era and influenced many composers during the Sturm und Drang movement.