Final answer:
Composers in the early twentieth century responded to modernism in various ways: Some created innovative music by shattering traditional norms, while others expanded upon Romantic ideals or expressed nationalism through music. Modernism introduced new philosophies and techniques in music, reflecting a societal push for change and originality.
Step-by-step explanation:
Reactions to Modernism in Early Twentieth-Century Music
During the early twentieth century, various composers had distinct responses to the rise of modernism in music. Some sought to revolutionize musical expression, investing in atonality, polyrhythms, and dissonance to venture beyond traditional western scales, notes, and tempos. These efforts led to innovative classics that pushed the boundaries of what music could convey. Others, despite recognizing the need for change, chose to extend the Romantic traditions, refining and exaggerating its ideals without completely abandoning its core principles. For example, composers like Mahler and Strauss expanded the emotional and structural scope of their Romantic works. Additionally, the emergence of nationalism in music allowed composers to infuse their pieces with national identity, reflecting the cultural and political aspirations of the time.
Modernism in music, anchored by the philosophy of 'Make it new!', introduced radical forms and techniques, such as twelve-tone serialism, and it confronted established norms and societal expectations. It was an era marked by curiosity, skepticism, and a deliberate departure from the cultural constraints of the past. Striving to reflect the tumultuous nature of a rapidly changing world, the modernist movement was both a rebellion against the security of established order and an embrace of the unknown fields of creativity.