The book delves into the changing landscape of music patronage, the evolution of musical style and composition, and the rise of musical nationalism.
It details the social and political climate of the revolutionary era, examining the shift from patronage-based musical culture to a commercially driven one.
The book progresses by outlining the pre-revolutionary musical landscape, then examining how the revolutionary period disrupted these systems, creating opportunities for musical innovation.
Subsequent chapters analyze specific composers, works, and performance venues.