Chorus 2 Analysis

Question 1

Dynamic

Answer 1

Crescendo before chorus starts

Chorus starts forte

Question 2

Rhythm & Metre

Answer 2

12/8 time signature
4 dotted crotchets beats per bar - compound quadruple
Continuing the strong simple rhythm of the verse

Question 3

Pitch

Answer 3

Lowest note middle ‘C’

Highest note is ‘G’ which is a compound perfect 5th from middle C

Question 4

Structure

Answer 4

7 bar phrase chorus
Bars 17-24
Section C
Chorus similar to chorus of the Hebrew slaves by Verde in Nabuccu

Question 5

Melody

Answer 5

Similar to bar 3 - 10 but transposed upper 5th
The singers are in octaves
Minor 3rd at bar 23 word paints “life” emphasises sadness of the life of the poor
Falling melody of tritone 7th on tomorrow - indicates sorrow
Anacrusis at start of chorus emphasises the gathering of unity and courage

Question 6

Instrumentation

Answer 6

Fanfare of woodwind, horns and violins

Question 7

Tempo
Tonality
Texture
Timbre

Answer 7

Alla Marcia, grandioso - grandly/nobly like a march
C major modulates to A minor as verse 2 starts
Accompaniment is now fuller and chordal
Glissando at 17 - 21, dissonance at 19 adds defiance
Fanfare of woodwind, horns and violins

Question 8

Harmony

Answer 8

Plagal cadences 18 and 22 chords are (IV11c & I) and (IV9,11 & Ib)
Word paints “song of angry men” and “Beating of the drums”
Imperfect cadence 19-20 chords (#II7 & V9,11) word paints “ not be slaves again”
Perfect cadence word paints “when tomorrow comes” at 23-4 (V7 & I)