Program Music in Western Culture

Abstract

Music in Western culture during the Romantic period can be divided into two types: Absolute music and Program music. This article represents program music, which is instrumental music, usually written for symphony orchestra,  that used to describe or explain events, places, and emotional expressions including imitation of various sounds from the stories or events that the composers want to present. It is divided into 4 types: 1) program symphony   2) dramatic overture 3) concert overture and 4) symphonic or tone poem.  The program music is similar to a historical story recorded from generation to generation. Composers must be aware of the response that may arise from their works and create songs to serve humanity in accordance with the roles and duties of music.