Reading Classical Music Through an Introvert–Extrovert Lens

クラシック音楽

Composers Who Seem Extroverted

Next, let’s look at the extroverted composers.

モーツァルト

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Austria
1756〜1791(Classical)


Cheerful and sociable, he enjoyed concert tours and court life, bringing his quick wit and sense of humor wherever he went. His many encounters with people left a rich imprint on his music.

Overture to The Marriage of Figaro
 ・・・an upbeat burst of joy

Turkish March (Sonata No.11, K.331, 3rd movement)
 ・・・a lively rhythm that makes you want to tap along

リスト

Franz Liszt
Hungary
1811〜1886(Romantic)


A charismatic performer who captivated audiences and thrived in the spotlight, he embraced glamorous social circles, enjoyed exchanges with students and friends, and devoted himself to both composing and teaching.

La Campanella (Grandes études de Paganini No.3)
 ・・・brilliant technique and a ringing charm

Feux Follets (Transcendental Études No.5)
 ・・・a thrilling piece packed with speed and excitement

ベルリオーズ

Hector Berlioz
France
1803〜1869(Romantic)


Passionate and energetic, he actively promoted his works through concerts and sharp music criticism. A lover of travel, he connected with people in many places and gained a reputation for his eloquent writing.

Overture to Roméo et Juliette
 ・・・a romantic and dramatic musical story

Symphonie fantastique, 2nd movement “Un bal”
 ・・・a waltz capturing the sparkle of a grand ballroom

ワーグナー

Richard Wagner
Germany
1813〜1883(Romantic)

With strong self-assertion and determination, he gained the support of many patrons and admirers. He skillfully navigated social circles to spread his grand musical vision, while also engaging deeply with politics and philosophy.

Ride of the Valkyries
 ・・・music with full cinematic power

Overture to Tannhäuser
 ・・・an overture packed with drama

ストラヴィンスキー

Igor Stravinsky
Russia
1882〜1971(Neoclassicism and more)


Highly conscious of self-presentation, he was active in cultural circles across Europe and America — performing, lecturing, and using social settings to promote new musical ideas.

Pulcinella Suite
 ・・・a piece full of humor and playfulness

The Firebird: “Infernal Dance of King Kashchei”
 ・・・strong and dynamic dance music

ABOUT US
おつう / O'tu
Hello! I’m a Japanese IT engineer in my 40s, and I’m married.

I've been writing a blog about introversion, and along the way I’ve come to realize that the challenges introverts face are universal, regardless of nationality.

That's what led me to start sharing my thoughts in English too.