Final answer:
Music historically was played for the aristocracy, but evolved to be performed for the public during the Romantic era. Composers serve as creators who communicate through music to invoke emotion and express ideas. They engage in extensive composition processes and connect with audiences who play a role in supporting and interpreting the musical arts.
Step-by-step explanation:
Historically, music was played in various venues, from the courts of the aristocracy to public spaces. The role of the composer during public performances has evolved over time. In the Classical period, composers like Mozart and Haydn often relied on the patronage of the aristocracy and their music was performed for small, upper-class audiences who were knowledgeable about music. However, with the rise of the middle class and the advent of the Romantic period, composers like Beethoven began writing for public concerts and festivals with large audiences. These Romantic composers often challenged audiences with new and progressive music, similar to the works of Berlioz, Strauss, and Wagner.
As a composer, one sees their role as the creator and architect of musical experiences, communicating with audiences to evoke emotions, tell stories, or advocate for issues. Composers speak to listeners through their music, and each piece serves a purpose, whether to entertain, provoke thought, or express complex emotions. The music composition process can be extensive, with the planning, research, drafting, and revising stages in some cases consuming significant time. A composer may spend the most time on the part of the process where they feel the need to refine their ideas to best convey their message or theme. Reflection upon completion of a piece might reveal areas for further development or change if the process were to begin anew.
The audience has a relationship with the composer and the music, often as supporters or critics. Music and arts are deeply connected to culture and community, expressing collective values, histories, and experiences. Moreover, music has the remarkable ability to transcend language barriers, acting as a universal form of communication, connecting people across cultures.