The term 'nocturne' was first used by English composer John Field (1782-1837) to describe some of his own pieces. The word was picked up by Chopin in the 1830s and 1840s to describe his own compositions, which were written for playing in salons. Another composer noted for his nocturnes is Gabriel Fauré (1845-1924). The nocturne, then, is a creation and feature of the Romantic era of Classical Music. It is related to the word 'night' and is typical of the 'natural' themes that dominate the Romantics of all arts.