Grand Piano by Pleyel, owned by Frédéric Chopin

The 19th century was the era of Romanticism, characterized by both intimacy and grandeur, as well as virtuosity. Opera, in particular, thrived during this period, with grand opera being in vogue, especially in Paris. Grand opera was marked by large choirs, marches, ballets, and grandiose scenes from history. On the concert stage, virtuoso performers took the spotlight – singers like Rubini and Jenny Lind, pianists such as Franz Liszt and Frédéric Chopin, and violinists like Niccolò Paganini, to name a few. This room holds a central place for a Pleyel grand piano from 1844 that once belonged to Chopin. Additionally, there is a secretary and other items that belonged to Georges Bizet, as well as a bust of Bizet created by Carl Milles, which he sculpted for his friend Rudolf Nydahl. Adorning the walls are lithographs by Toulouse-Lautrec and opera posters from the 19th century. Also featured is a drawing by the French author Georges Sand and a bust of Rossini. The instruments in this room reflect the rapid technological advancements of the 19th century, with an increasing industrialization of instrument manufacturing.