Summary

The image of Beethoven as a "free artist" was a source of inspiration for many Romantic-period musicians, because he composed out of desire or will rather than strictly to fulfill a commission. Composers of the romantic period were often motivated to compose out of a desire for posterity or a place in history, and their compositions were not necessarily dependent on audience or occasion--and music as a profession became institutionalized through the advent of music conservatories. Economic and social changes which made it more difficult for nobility or the wealthy to provide consistent support for artists was also a factor. Increasingly, the composers had to compete for an audience that was public, due to increased influence of the middle class during the industrial revolution. For more information on the impact of social trends during this period, consult the web resources below.