Hector Berlioz was the first of many composers to write music for orchestra that told a dramatic story with instrumental sounds, (instrumental program music). The Symphony Fantastique was created from the composer's own personal story, though the program was not an exact re-telling of his own dealings with his beloved.
He never killed his beloved, and the fifth movement is full of mythical creatures and evil spirits. Explain in detail the program, all five movements, and how it related to his relationship with Harriet Smithson. How did Berlioz use the instruments of the orchestra to represent the characters and scenery of the program? Begin with a brief introduction including important facts about Berlioz's life and career.