Beatles (Eleanor Rigby)

Question 1

Melody

Answer 1

• Diatonic
• Modal with Dorian and Aeolian modes
• Repetition
• Mainly conjunct / step
• Descending triad
• Descending sequence
• Octave leap in refrain
• Later the leap extends to a (minor) 10th

AO4: Explanation of the effect of the element. Discussion of the melody of The Beatles and other composers.

Question 2

Structure

Answer 2

• Modified strophic form
• Introduction - eight bars
• Verse - two five bar phrases
• Refrain – two four bar phrases
• Coda

AO4: Explanation of the effect of the element. Discussion of approaches to structure by The Beatles and other composers.

Question 3

Texture

Answer 3

• Melody dominated homophony / melody and accompaniment
• Homophonic / homorhythmic / chordal strings
• Viola countermelody
• Backing vocals in 3rds
• Cello pedal note
• Cello doubles vocals / unison
• Contrapuntal / polyphonic vocal and backing vocals (final refrain)

AO4: Explanation of the effect of the element. Discussion of approaches to texture by The Beatles and other composers.