Bernstein

Question 1

What is the main key signature of this piece?

Answer 1

D Major

Question 2

What musical is ‘Something’s Coming’ from?

Answer 2

West Side Story

Question 3

What is the structure of ‘Something’s Coming’?

Answer 3

A B B A where A is a slightly altered version of A and B is a slightly altered version of B.

Question 4

What is time signature of the piece?

Answer 4

3/4 in Section A

2/4 in Section B

Question 5

What is important about the five woodwind players in the orchestra?

Answer 5

They all double up (play more than one instrument).

Question 6

What melodic device does Bernstein use in ‘Something’s Coming’ to give the listener a vivid image in their mind?

Answer 6

Word-painting

Question 7

What is the name of the interval between G♯ and D that is used frequently throughout the piece?

Answer 7

Tritone (‘diabolus in musica’)

Question 8

Name four rhythmic devices that Bernstein uses to contribute towards the expectant mood of the piece.

Answer 8

Syncopation
Push-rhythms
Cross-rhythms
Triplets