Beethoven 5 Flashcards
Overview
Triplet rhythmic theme synonymous with Beethoven and symphonic writing
Form
4 movements but attacca Mvt 3 to Mvt 4.
Mvt 1: Overview
C minor to C major. Tragedy then triumph. 4 note rhythm permeates the whole symphony.
Mvt 1: Expo
4 note motif in C minor: theme 1. Lyrical Eb major melody: theme 2.
Mvt 1: Dev
Horn announces development. Manipulation of 4 note theme through descending sequences.
Mvt 1: Recap
C minor theme returns, oboe cadenza, theme 1 returns in C major (not C minor)
Mvt 2
Ab major: extensive set of theme and variations starting in the low strings. Sudden change to C major with full orchestra during the second march-like theme.
Mvt 3
Scherzo: Mannheim skyrocket to start in low strings, 4 note rhythmic motif still evident, Trio theme treated fugually in basses. Scherzo returns with pizzicato strings.
Mvt 4
Attacca from Mvt 3 with epic crescendo to huge C major tutti start of Mvt 4. Sonata form. Scherzo theme and 4 note themes briefly reappear. Huge coda.
Orchestra
Piccolo, trombones and contrabassoon added but don’t appear until Mvt 4; impact. First symphony to have a separate contrabassoon line.
Harmony & Tonality
C minor to C major.
Humour, drama, narrative & programme
Tragedy (unease of C minor) to triumph (grandeur and might of C major).
Melody and theme
4 note theme synonymous with this symphony; used in dialogue and throughout Mvt 1 especially.
Texture
Mel. dom. hom., fugual, tutti and unison writing for impact.
Rhythm/Tempo/Metre
4 note theme and relentless rhythmic drive of this piece; previously unheard of.
Dance, folk & national
Aggressive scherzo built on the movement 1 subject 1 rhythm
Patronage
Prince Lobkowitz and Count Razumovsky (Russian diplomat living in Vienna)
Key info
Beethoven 5 1808 C minor
