It is difficult to imagine that music could have ever risen to the level of warfare—unless you’re living in the 21st century, when culture wars occupy both our airwaves and our minds. Similarly, in 19th century Europe composers, musicians, critics, and audiences turned against each other in a dispute about tradition and progress, and about the meaning of music. The dispute reached a surprising intensity, complete with a war of words in the press and highly charged public demonstrations in concert halls. Known as WAR OF THE ROMANTICS, it engulfed several countries, filling key journals and magazines with verbal polemics, frequently marred by vitriol and personal insults. Almost all of the Romantic composers were embroiled in it.