Final answer:
The rise of the middle class during the Romantic era led to a greater audience for music and increased its popularity.
Step-by-step explanation:
Middle Class Influence on the Appeal of Music
The rise of the middle class had a significant impact on the appeal of music. Classical composers primarily relied on the patronage of the aristocracy and had a small, upper-class audience. However, during the Romantic era, composers started writing for public concerts and festivals, attracting larger audiences of paying customers from the growing middle class. This shift in audience demographics led to a greater demand for music and increased its popularity.