what was orchestra in the romantic period?

During the Romantic period (roughly 1820-1900), orchestras expanded significantly in size and instrumentation, allowing for a richer and more varied sound. Composers such as Tchaikovsky, Brahms, and Mahler utilized this larger orchestra to convey deep emotions and dramatic narratives in their music. The use of new instruments and innovative orchestration techniques became prominent, enabling more expressive compositions that reflected the era's emphasis on individuality and emotional depth. This period also saw the rise of the conductor's role in guiding performances and interpreting the increasingly complex scores.