Synopsis

The Romantic era in music witnessed a fervent embrace of dramatic storytelling, a trend exemplified by works like Berlioz’s *Le Corsair* and Britten’s *Les Illuminations*. These compositions moved beyond purely abstract expression, instead seeking to evoke vivid narratives through musical means. They prioritized emotional intensity and theatricality, often employing program music – pieces designed to depict a specific story or scene – to achieve their aims. The result was a powerful shift in mus