In which period was programmatic music with descriptive titles commonly used?

Programmatic music, which is designed to evoke specific ideas, images, or narratives through instrumental composition, became particularly prominent during the Romantic period. This era, spanning roughly from the late 18th century to the early 20th century, was characterized by an emphasis on emotional expression and individualism, which aligned itself well with the concept of music that tells a story or paints a picture.

Composers such as Franz Liszt and Richard Strauss were known for their programmatic works. These pieces often had descriptive titles, giving listeners insight into the themes or stories the music intended to convey. Examples include Liszt's "Les Préludes" and Strauss's "Also sprach Zarathustra," both of which use their titles to frame the listener’s experience of the music.

In contrast, the Classical period, while influential in establishing many forms and structures in music, did not typically focus on evocative, descriptive titles; rather, it emphasized clarity and balance. The Baroque period also favored a more abstract approach to musical expression, primarily using forms and counterpoint. The 20th and 21st centuries certainly saw a variety of programmatic music, but the Romantic period is particularly noteworthy for its commitment to narrative and imagery, making it the correct